Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot
Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot is a podcast that explores Sri Lanka’s rich history, diverse cultures, and modern-day realities. From ancient kingdoms and colonialism to post-war society and global diaspora, we dive deep into the forces shaping this unique island nation.
Join experts, artists, activists, and everyday voices as we unpack timely topics — including Sri Lankan politics, ethnic identity, migration, innovation, climate change, and regional dynamics in South Asia.
Whether you're Sri Lankan, part of the diaspora, or curious about the cultural, political, and historical depth of South Asia, this podcast offers thoughtful conversations and fresh perspectives.
New episodes released regularly. Season 3 starts in September.
👉 Follow now to discover modern stories from one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
Keywords: Sri Lanka podcast, South Asia, Sri Lankan diaspora, Tamil Sinhalese history, modern Sri Lanka, island culture, South Asian politics, global south voices, post-conflict society
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot
Serena Burgess on Sri Lankan Identity, Activism and Challenging Perceptions
In this captivating episode Dee talks to Serena Burgess about cultural identity across generations and why the philosophy of yoga is an emotional toolbox for life. The conversation emphasises the importance of correcting narratives around Sri Lankan identity and the dynamic nature of the island.
Serena was born in the UK and is a well established yoga teacher and doula living in Sri Lanka. She shares her journey of growing up between Sri Lanka and the UK until settling there with her English husband, why she sees herself as Sri Lankan and the different perceptions that other people have of her. Serena discusses her philosophy of yoga beyond the mat, activism, and her efforts to decolonize yoga through the creation The Conscious Courage Yoga Collective. The conversation offers wide insights into multi-generational views of identity, and the resulting parenting choices for her own children successfully challenging accepted norms of perceived best practice.
Serena also talks about her involvement in the peaceful people's uprising known as ‘Aragalaya’ and how the reality was a beautiful, creative, community experience despite misleading information received in the West, with devastating consequences for Sri Lanka in 2022.
The podcast underscores themes of resilience, interconnectedness, and the potential of creativity in modern Sri Lanka.
Summary
Welcome to Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives
Meet Serena Burgess: Yoga Teacher and Doula
Cultural Identity and Belonging
Conscious Courage: Yoga and Activism
The Role of a Doula in Sri Lanka
Empowering the Next Generation
Reflections on Sri Lanka and the West
Supporting Sri Lankan Female Entrepreneurs
Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts
Title: Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot
Host: Dee Gibson — Sri Lankan-born, award winning designer based in London and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka. www.kalukandahouse.com | instagram @deegibson2017 & @kalukandahouse
Podcast Themes:
- Modern Sri Lankan identity and culture
- Architecture, art, and design
- Sustainability and heritage
- Diaspora experiences and storytelling
Why Listen:
This podcast offers deep, intelligent storytelling about Sri Lanka’s evolving identity — a blend of East and West, ancient and modern. It’s for listeners who love culture, travel, architecture, and thoughtful conversation.