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
Season Finale: Exploring an Author's Life with Ashok Ferry
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 depths of Ashok's work.
The episode features Ashok reading a personal and moving excerpt from his book 'The Unmarriageable Man,' encapsulating the profound themes in his writing beyond the satire and humour.
Summary
01:07 Meet Ashok Ferry: Author and Personal Trainer
03:17 Ashok's Writing Process and Personal Life
08:44 The Confessional Role of Personal Training
14:56 Ashok's Diverse Background and Early Life
22:11 Venturing into Property Development
29:07 The Accidental Writer: Birth of 'Colpetti People'
34:06 The Art of Letting Things Be
34:22 Mathematics in Writing
36:21 The Role of Sound and Rhythm in Art
37:36 Emotional Design and Neuroplasticity
38:51 The Creative Process and Following the Story
39:43 Favorite Books and Writing During War
44:14 The Ceylon Literary Festival
48:12 Promoting Young Talent and Accessibility
54:02 Sri Lanka's Creative Spirit
01:01:37 The Power of Poetry
01:04:25 A Heartfelt Reading
About Ashok Ferry and Links
Best-selling Sri Lankan author Ashok Ferrey has six books to his credit, all variously nominated for the Gratiaen Prize, the DSC Prize, or State Literary Award. His last, The Unmarriageable Man, went on to win the Gratiaen - Sri Lanka’s premier literary prize founded by Michael Ondaatje.
In a parallel life Ashok is a designer and builder of houses. His last project, the Cricket Club Café in Colombo, was nominated for a Geoffrey Bawa Award for Excellence in Architecture – the first time a non-architect was accorded this honour.
A former TEDx speaker, and Curator of the very first Ceylon Literary Festival, Ashok is by day a personal trainer.
Ashok Ferry video reading in 2020 for the Health Services Sri Lanka and UK on behalf of Kalukanda House
Videa of Ashok reading
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.