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
Diaspora Diaries : Zaynab Zubair on Identity, Culture, Creativity and Finding Serendipity
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 shapes personal narratives. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling in capturing the nuanced experiences of the Sri Lankan diaspora.
The conversation also highlights the importance of communities like Hera project X in supporting creative Sri Lankan women globally.
Summary
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
01:08 Meet Zaynab Zubair: A Sri Lankan-British Writer
02:39 Reading from 'Finding Serendipity'
08:42 Zaynab Personal Journey
14:31 Exploring Identity and Culture
20:04 The Role of Religion in Sri Lankan Life
32:28 Blending Cultures: Zaynab Family Life
36:27 The Hera Project and Community
39:33 What's Next for Zaynab?
LINKS
Short Stories
Coromandel: A boyhood of love - Short Story (Frescoes Book 1) https://amzn.eu/d/hv4TYvC
Vesak in Dilmun: A short story https://amzn.eu/d/0NJZKqw
Finding Serendipity Instagram for release updates!
https://www.instagram.com/finding_serendipity.lk?igsh=MXV3a2Fpc2lrYXZnbw==
Follow Zaynab
Baobab.lk instagram
https://www.instagram.com/baobab.lk/profilecard/?igsh=dmgzd2J3aG40aHBr
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.