Leopards, birds, whales, and forests — Sri Lanka’s wild heart beats in every corner. Naturalist Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne shares how this tiny island rivals the world’s great biodiversity hotspots. In this episode of “Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot,” I speak with Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne, one of Sri Lanka’s leading naturalists and authors. Together, we explore the island’s extraordinary biodiversity — from its ancient forests to its unique evolutionary sto...

In this episode Hotelier, Designer and Podcaster Dee Gibson explores the effects of Sri Lanka’s urbanisation on humans and elephants. Guest Juliet Coombe discusses her passion for Sri Lanka and her project 'Elephant Story Trails’ aimed at resolving human-elephant conflicts through sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. On this island shaped by monsoons and memory, the elephant is more than an animal. It is a living rhythm — a pulse that has echoed through Sri Lanka for centuries....

Nimmi Harasgama: From Shy Child to Award-Winning Actress and Writer In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Nimmi Harasgama, a celebrated Sri Lankan actress, writer, and producer with a diverse career spanning continents. We delve into Harasgama's early years of overcoming extreme shyness, her break into acting, and her impactful roles in productions like TV drama 'Good Karma Hospital' and the film 'Funny Boy.' The episode covers Harasgama's experiences as an immigrant in the ...

Exploring Cultural Displacement and Creative Narratives in Sri Lanka with Filmmaker Sean Seneviratne. In this episode, we dive deep into the cultural layers of Sri Lanka through the eyes of Sean Seneviratne, also known as Brown Sean, an American Sri Lankan filmmaker and educator. Sean discusses his debut feature film 'Ben and Suzanne: A Reunion in Four Parts,' which explores themes of cultural displacement and modern perspectives in Sri Lanka. The conversation covers Sean's journey from...

This episode is about Forest Bathing and Indigenous Wisdom with Sri Lankan guest and Forest Bathing expert Susan Joachim. We explore the benefits of forest bathing with Susan who is living in Australia and is the president and founding member of the International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance. INFTA). The episode covers the history and science behind forest bathing, its origins in Japan, and its benefits for mental and physical wellbeing. Science has finally caught up with what ind...

Why Sri Lanka Must Address Textile Waste: Insights from Lonali Rodrigo In this episode of 'Sri Lanka, Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot,' host Dee Gibson interviews fashion entrepreneur Lonali Rodrigo, discussing the pressing need for Sri Lanka to address textile waste. Lonali highlights the country's history in garment production and the growing challenge of pre- and post-consumer waste. Through her brand, House of Lonali, she exemplifies sustainable practices by up-cycling tex...

This episode features Selyna Peiris of Selyn Textiles, a prominent fair trade handloom and social enterprise in Sri Lanka. Founded by Selyna's mother nearly 35 years ago with the aim of providing work for women, Selyna shares her journey from aspiring diplomat and UN-hopeful to taking over the creative legacy business. She discusses the importance of collaboration, fair pay, and sustainable business practices. Additionally, Selyna talks about launching Femcare, a project to produce reus...

In this episode we delve into the fascinating journey of Rehan Mudannayake, a Sri Lankan Actor, Director, and Writer who made his screen debut in the film 'Funny Boy' directed by the acclaimed Deepa Mehta. Rehan recounts his unique path into acting, the influence of his diverse upbringing, and his commitment to changing the narrative around brown people in film. He discusses his creative processes, his life in Brixton, and his latest projects, including a comedy series called 'Cougar' and an ...

In this episode Dee chats to Rangi Fernando, a Sri Lankan-born dancer and dance movement therapist who has recently returned to Sri Lanka after living in Germany. Rangi shares her journey of transitioning back to her homeland and her passion for Dance Movement Therapy (DMT), which she believes is a powerful tool for self-expression and therapy. She discusses her first major community performance project, 'Spotlight,' aimed at empowering women through dance. The episode delves into the origins...

In this episode Dee speaks with Revatha Shah, founder of Vedda Teas and co-founder of Sarana, a cultural centre in southern Sri Lanka. Revatha shares his journey from Western upbringing in Colombo and the UK to reconnecting with his Sri Lankan roots through promoting indigenous herbs and teas. The episode includes moving accounts on the existential threats to the indigenous Vedda population, the effects of colonisation and modern tourism, and the pressing need to support local Sri Lankan busi...

In the second series of 'Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot', host Dee Gibson interviews actress Shalini Peiris, who is set to appear in the third series of 'White Lotus'. They discuss Shalini's upbringing in a multi-faith household in Sri Lanka and beyond, and her journey from academia and human rights activism to acting. Shalini shares the gritty challenges and triumphs of her acting career, the impact of her heritage, and her experience on the stage, screen and on t...

The final episode of Season 1 and Dee talks to acclaimed Sri Lankan author Ashok Ferry about his multifaceted life, including his experiences studying at Oxford University, attending a Benedictine monastery in Sussex, his journey as a property developer in the UK and his role in founding the Galle and Ceylon Literary Festivals. Ashok shares insights into his life and his unique creative process. They discuss the cultural richness of Sri Lanka, its emerging creative talents, and the emotional ...

The episode features an interview with Siobhan D'Almeida, an artist, designer, and activist who returned to Sri Lanka from Dubai amidst COVID and economic crises. Recorded on a particularly stormy day, resonant of the upheavals that Siobhan went through, she shares her experience of cultural shock, her role in the 2022 People's Uprising (Aragalya), and her iconic artwork that became a symbol of unity and strength. Dee and Siobhan discuss the transformative power of art, community projects wit...

In this episode Dee interviews Roma Wells, the new BBC TV Travel presenter who shares her unique journey and experiences as an Irish Sri Lankan. They discuss Roma's career inspiration, her travels to destinations like the Arctic and Costa Rica, and delve into her childhood, highlighting how her heritage and passion for nature have shaped her. Roma talks about her book, 'Seek the Singing Fish,' available widely in bookstores and online. She has launched her new company, Curious Fox...

Dee interviews Sara Nazoor, founder of the Sri Lankan jewellery brand ALKE. The conversation delves into Sara's journey of creating unique and show stopping pieces using recycled materials and considering emotions of the designer and the user. They discuss ALKE's eco-friendly approach, mental health advocacy, and Sara's 73-day walk around Sri Lanka to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. The podcast highlights the blend of creativity, sustainability, and emotional express...

In this episode Dee welcomes Omaya, a Sri Lankan yoga teacher and philosopher. They delve into how yoga philosophy differs in the West from Sri Lanka, focusing on mind-body connection, menstrual cycle awareness, and the balance of masculine and feminine energies. This conversation highlights the importance of tuning into our bodies and creating space for introspection, both in life and in spiritual practice. Thoughts on "successful meditation" and Omaya's future plans for opening a sanc...

In this episode host Dee Gibson welcomes British Sri Lankan writer Zaynab Zubair. Dee and Zaynab explore a myriad of topics surrounding Sri Lankan identities and the diaspora experience and Zaynab reads an excerpt from her upcoming book 'Finding Serendipity,' which delves into themes of migration, identity, and the cultural interplay between Sri Lanka and Britain. They reflect on the historical influence of colonialism, the complexities of religious identities, and how cultural upbringing sha...

This episode features a conversation with Irushi Tenekoon, an award-winning animator from Sri Lanka. Dee and Irushi discuss her journey into animation, her work on 'The Animate Her Series', and her film about Minnette de Silva, a pioneering female architect in 1950s Sri Lanka. Despite her innovative approach to social housing and significant contributions, Minnette's work has been undervalued until now and conversations cover what Minnette did for architecture. The episode emphasises the impo...

This episode hosted by Dee Gibson, focuses on the dynamic and under-appreciated life of Minette De Silva, a pioneering Sri Lankan architect. Guests Selva and Shiromi discuss their personal connections to De Silva and the extensive research that led to Shiromi's novel, 'Plastic Emotions,' which explores De Silva's complex life and contributions. The conversation covers De Silva's unique approach to architecture, her bold personality, and why she has been largely forgotten despite her groundbre...

In this episode Dee welcomes Katie Mantwa George, who trained with Deepak Chopra and the Dalai Lama, is an expert on Fearne Cotton's popular 'Happy Place' app and works with global brands and individuals. A highly sought after leadership guide with rich multicultural heritage and extensive training, Katie discusses her professional journey from a high flying corporate career to leadership coaching. The conversation covers how Katie's personal experiences shaped her, provides insights into emp...