Sri Lanka – Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot

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

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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 with underprivileged children, and the vibrant creative scene in Sri Lanka. The conversation explores themes of identity, creativity, activism, and the power in creative activism and the importance of nurturing the next generation's dreams.

Summary

00:57 Meet Siobhan D'Almeida: Artist, Designer, and Activist

02:45 Returning to Sri Lanka: A Time of Upheaval

04:47 Art as Activism: The People's Uprising and Iconic Collage

06:24 Exploring Identity Through Art

16:34 Community Art Projects and Teaching

23:07 HERA Project X Community and Creative Residencies

25:20 Upcoming Projects

About Siobhan D'Almeida

Self taught Artist and Designer, and part time lecturer, with an educational background in Psychology, Siobhan was born and raised in Dubai and pursued higher education in London, before moving to her home country of Sri Lanka. Her body of work includes acrylic paintings, murals, collage, tapestry work, batik, workshop facilitation, community-based art projects, and a fashion label.

Siobhan says "My work aims to blend her two loves of Psychology and Art; creating space for expression, reflection, and appreciation of the spectrum that is the human experience! "

https://www.instagram.com/siobhansgallerywall/

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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 Travel, which creates responsible and enriching travel experiences and the conversation covers how travellers and hoteliers can come together to make travel a force for good. Themes of sustainable travel, the power of nature, and the importance of human connection connect this conversation and show us how we can fill ourselves with awe and wonder and be kind to our planet at the same time.

Summary

00:49 Introducing Roma Wells: Nature Presenter and Author

02:13 Adventures in Costa Rica and the Arctic

06:33 Childhood Curiosity and Love for Nature

11:26 The Blend of Irish and Sri Lankan Heritage

21:59 Sustainable Travel and Compassion Fatigue

29:54 Embracing Awe and Living in the Moment

30:52 Connecting with Nature and Inner Self

31:58 Exploring the Spiritual Perspective

33:29 The Journey of Writing 'Seek the Singing Fish'

35:18 Nature as a Sanctuary and Source of Hope

44:38 Curious Fox Travel: Ethical and Enriching Experiences

52:23 The Importance of Community and Collaboration

55:50 Kalukanda House: A Haven of Rejuvenation

01:01:09 Future Endeavors and Final Thoughts

About Roma Wells

Roma Wells is an Author, Adventurer and Presenter who is wildly curious about life. She runs Curious Fox Travel which is all about travelling kinder, offering breathtaking trips which uplift local communities and support wildlife conservation. As a storyteller at the core, she is immensely passionate about uplifting mental health through exploring the wonders of our natural world.

www.romawells.com

 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60101407-seek-the-singing-fish

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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 expression in Sara's work and her vision for scaling ALKE by empowering communities through sustainable practices.

Summary

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

01:04 Meet Sara Nazoor: Founder of ALKE

01:28 The Unique Approach of ALKE Jewellery

04:24 Combining Jewellery Design with Mental Health Advocacy

07:25 The 73-Day Walk for Mental Health Awareness

16:45 Scaling ALKE: Community Training and Sustainable Practices

24:36 Challenges and Successes of a Female Creative in Sri Lanka

29:44 Future projects

About Sara Nazoor and links

Sara Nazoor started making jewellery at 13 years old and kept developing her techniques over the years to finally launch her brand ALKE in 2014.

ALKE jewellery is made of recycled material, designed and crafted by people who are paid fair wages and given recognition for the work they do. She has worked with Emerge Global as a design mentor at their incubation centre, training young women in designing and manufacturing contemporary jewellery. 

In 2015 she showcased at ARTWALK in Sri Lanka, and in 2016 her work was placed third at the International Art and Design Competition conducted by Accademia Riaci, Italy. She was also chosen as a mentor for the Shilpa Saviya design mentoring program in 2017 by the Colombo Design Market. 

ALKE Design pieces

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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 sanctuary  dedicated to Ayurvedic and Sri Lankan food, yoga, and workshops.

Omaya's early discovery of yoga aged 18 was a quest for freedom; discussing how yoga gave her what she was looking for is inspiration for us all that understanding this ancient practice could be one of our biggest tools to inner liberation.

 
Summary

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:51 Meet Amaya: A Unique Yoga Journey

02:51 Amaya's Early Life and Discovering Yoga

08:14 The Philosophy and Practice of Yoga

13:12 Balancing Life and Yoga

27:10 Empowering Sri Lankan Women

32:39 Future Endeavors and Conclusion

About Omaya and links

Omaya is a yoga teacher, facilitator and philosopher. She teaches different modalities and includes many different styles within one class. Her practice went from being strict pose / asana oriented to more intuitive. Omaya is currently making space for a project in Ahangama, a village in the south coast of Sri Lanka. The project will share the story of Sri Lanka through a small store with locally-sourced products, a cafe offering Sri Lankan food with an Ayurvedic twist and engaging workshops and discussions.

Instagram link here

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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 importance of highlighting Sri Lankan stories and talents on international platforms to challenge mainstream narratives and celebrate local heroes.

Summary

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:47 Meet Arushi TennoCon: Animator and Educator

02:44 Arushi's Creative Journey

05:53 The Animator Series: Celebrating Heroines

16:25 The Minette de Silva Project

36:15 The Importance of Diverse Narratives

39:27 Current and Future Projects

Irushi Tenekoon is an award winning animator, illustrator and educator based in Colombo, Sri Lanka. She teaches animation to undergraduates part time at the Academy of Design in Colombo and spends the rest of her time working on illustrating and animating stories from Sri Lanka and South Asia out of her home studio. While starting out as a self taught artist, she recently completed her MA in Animation at the Royal College of Art in London supported by a Chevening Scholarship from the UK’s FCDO. Her notable work includes: 

• 83 A very short film (2016)
• The Animate Her series (2019-2022) 
• Is This an Architectural Documentary? (2023) 

To learn more about her work visit www.irusdedoodles.com

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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 groundbreaking work. They highlight the gender and political dynamics that contributed to her erasure from history. The guests emphasise De Silva's innovative participatory design methods, her progressive ideas ahead of her time, and call for the preservation of her remaining works and recognition of her legacy.

Summary

00:00 Welcome to Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives
02:23 Introducing Minette de Silva
03:37 Discovering Minette's Legacy
07:23 Writing 'Plastic Emotions'
10:51 The Significance of Minette's Story
22:04 Challenges and Controversies
32:40 The Legacy of Jeffrey Bawa and Minette de Silva
33:31 Minette's Erasure and Rediscovery
34:09 Gendered Perspectives on Minette's Work
34:41 Minette's Personal and Professional Struggles
39:27 Minette's Approach to Architecture
52:12 Reclaiming Minette's Narrative
56:25 Preserving Minette's Legacy

Shiromi Pinto is a writer, editor, strategist and author and wrote the book Plastic Emotions, a novel based on Minnette de Silva. Born in London and raised in Montreal, Shiromi has written short fiction for BBC Radio 4, the Victoria & Albert Museum and opendemocracy.net. Her first novel, Trussed, was reviewed as ‘audacious’ (Bernardine Evaristo in The Independent), ‘brilliant’ (Diva) and ‘so cool that it hurts’ (The Times). After over a decade working for Amnesty International, she is now a communications consultant at writingeditingwords.com.

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/jul/20/plastic-emotions-by-shiromi-pinto-review

Selva Sandrapragas RIBA ARB is an architect practicing in the UK. As an undergraduate he worked with Minnette de Silva on the “12 Villages Exhibition”  shown at the Commonwealth Institute 1987/88 After finishing his post graduate studies at the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London he completed his professional practice qualifications ( RIBA Part 3 )  at the Architectural Association school architecture. He was awarded the INTACH ( Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage ) & ICOMOS Scholarship in 1992 to study the wooden Taravad architecture of Kerala. In 1997 he was  awarded the ADB/Japan Scholarship to study urban design at Hong Kong University. 

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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 empathetic leadership, and describes why her upcoming retreat in Sri Lanka focuses on inclusive wellness, cultural exchange, and personal growth.

Dee and Katie also draw distinctions between empathy, kindness, and sympathy, emphasising self-awareness and authenticity in leadership. They explore practical ways to create mental space and connect with one's core essence. The episode underscores the importance of understanding oneself, embracing cultural heritage, and fostering community in both personal and professional realms. The retreat, "Finding Home Within" , highlights how a collaborative and enriching partnership between host and destination is a winning formula for healing.

Summary
Introduction to the Podcast
Meet This Week's Guest: Katie George
Katie's Early Life and University Days
Challenges in Psychology Studies
Corporate Life and Transition to Leadership Coaching
The Importance of Empathy in Leadership
Practical Tips for Self-Connection
Upcoming Retreat and Its Unique Offerings
Cultural Exchange and Community Building
Future Plans and ConclusionLink to Retreat

https://www.beinghumanwell.com/sri-lanka-retreat

Website: https://www.beinghumanwell.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-mantwa-george

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beinghumanwell/profilecard/?igsh=M2JoZzJ4N3gzOHpv

Katie Mantwa George is a Leadership Guide and Founder of “Being Human Well”. Her mission is to highlight the importance of cultivating a sense of ease and belonging in ourselves and in our workplaces. She partners with notable brands and workplaces to boost Engagement, Productivity and Creativity using the power of Empathy and works with private individuals to expand Self-Awareness, Authenticity and Clarity using the power of Self-Compassion. She is also an expert on Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place Wellness App. She left a demanding corporate career to use her extensive experience and blend of unique professional training to inspire a more Human approach to ourselves and our workplaces.

Katie holds a BSc in Psychology, MSc in Occupational Psychology and a Meditation Certification (Deepak Chopra’s Teacher Training). She has also trained with the Dalai Lama in Indi

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

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

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

This episode features a joyful chat with Mehala Ford, Fashion PR, Curator and founder of concept store "Friday Sari Project" (FSP), exploring her innovative approaches to modern sari styling.

Mehala was born in Sri Lanka and raised in the UK. She is a creative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry and worked with notable designers like Alexander McQueen, Preen and emerging young designers in the late 90’s.  She teaches and champions modern sari drapes and styling to encourage the continuity of sari wearing. She has founded several creative platforms, notably FSP and she is also the creator of CommonGround&, an arts platform for South Asian creatives and has curated several cultural programmes for Royal Museums Greenwich.

Mehala discusses her transition from UK fashion retail to reconnecting with her heritage through the FSP. The project modernises traditional sari draping to resonate with contemporary fashion audiences and raises cultural awareness. We delve into the sari's historical roots, its adaptability, and the British influence on its styling.

Mehala shares her love affair with Sari draping and South Asian creativity and tradition, ultimately bringing attention to the vibrant artistic and cultural landscape of Sri Lanka.

Summary

Introduction to the Podcast
Meet This Week's Guest: Mehala Ford
Mehala's Background and Fashion Journey
Growing Up Sri Lankan in the UK
Breaking into the Creative Industry
The Influence of Family and the 80s
Discovering the Sari
The Friday Sari Project
The Versatility of Sari Drapes
Global Connections in Draping Styles
Modern Relevance of Draping
Draping Workshops and Cultural Exchange
Heritage and Personal Stories
The Friday Sari Project
Curating South Asian Heritage
Exploring Sri Lankan Creativity
Future Plans and Upcoming Events

https://www.fridaysariproject.co.uk

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.

Exploring the creative universe of multi-disciplinary creative Megan Dhakshini.

In this very first engaging episode of 'Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot,' host Dee Gibson introduces poetess, art director, and trilingual voiceover artist Megan Dhakshini. Megan discusses her poetry collections 'Poison Apple' and 'Softly We Fall,' which delve into themes of love, loss, and longing, and she performs her poems 'Now You See Red' and 'All of the women in me.' The conversation also highlights Megan's shift to spoken word to meet evolving audience preferences.

Megan also shares insights into her new silver jewellery brand 'Raatchasi,' inspired by traditional Tamil and Indian designs and aimed at redefining 'demoness' as a symbol of fierceness.

Join us for an exploration of Megan's artistic vision and the vibrant creative scene in Sri Lanka, reflecting her passion for creativity and self-expression.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

01:04 Meet Megan Ducheney: Poetess and Performer

02:02 A Poetic Performance: 'Now You See Red'

06:10 Megan's Journey in Poetry

07:40 Exploring Megan's Inspirations and Influences

09:17 The Creative Process Behind Megan's Work

13:32 Live Reading: 'All of the Women in Me'

15:44 Reflections on Womanhood and Creativity

16:50 The Sri Lankan Creative Scene

17:57 The Power of Spoken Word

19:05 Showcasing Jewelry and Fashion

21:02 Introducing Ratchasi

26:57 Creative Residencies Experience

31:10 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More

Follow Megan on instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/megan_dhakshinishatrughan/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/raatchasi_silver/?hl=en

Buy Poison Apple:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Poison-Apple-Megan-Dhakshini/dp/194702129X

Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse

This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.