Full Day Pass – 17th January 2025 (10 Literary Sessions)

9:30 am – 9:40 am | Cultural performance 

9:40 am – 9:45 am | Opening Address 

9:45 am – 10:25 am | Stories We Live: Fiction Meets Reality 

Ameena Hussein in conversation with Savithri Rodrigo

A journey through Ameena Hussain’s dual contributions to Sri Lankan literature as both a novelist and a non-fiction writer. Known for capturing the texture of Sri Lankan life, Ameena’s works provide a unique viewpoint on themes such as cultural identity, gender, and the everyday lives of Sri Lankan Muslims. Through this session, we’ll discuss how her fiction reveals emotional and personal landscapes, while her non-fiction gives an insightful look into broader societal and cultural dynamics.

10:30 am – 11:10 am | Where Worlds Collide 

Kiran Desai in conversation with Ashok Ferrey

Explore the profound role of landscapes—both literal and metaphorical—in Kiran Desai’s storytelling. Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard, where the orchard serves as a whimsical backdrop for themes of tradition, solitude, and rebellion; The Inheritance of Loss, where the mountainous terrain of Kalimpong amplifies themes of cultural dislocation and identity. Illuminate how Desai’s skillful integration of setting enriches her narratives, inviting audiences to appreciate the landscapes that shape her characters’ experiences and the broader human condition.

11:15 am – 11:55 am | Legends in Lace and Steel 

Manu S Pillai in conversation with Josephine Quinn

Explore the influential yet often-overlooked roles of women in history—as poets, warriors, and courtesans—through the lens of Manu S Pillai’s works, including The Ivory Throne, The Courtesan, the Mahatma and the Italian Brahmin, Rebel Sultans, and False Allies. This session examines how unconventional perspectives and hidden figures have shaped India’s cultural heritage, challenging dominant narratives and transforming our understanding of the past.

12:00 pm – 12:45 pm | Own Your Language

Liyanage Amarakeerthi, P. Ahilan, Sasanka Perera in conversation with Malinda Seneviratne

The session explores the intersections of Tamil and Sinhala storytelling. Speaking in their own languages, the panelists delve into the politics of language, cultural hybridity, and the role of language in shaping identity. They will also raise important questions: Why are Sri Lankan works in Sinhala and Tamil not more accessible in local markets? And how does language influence the preservation and dissemination of culture? This session promises a bold, impactful conversation on the power of language in Sri Lankan literature.

12:50 pm – 1:30 pm | Wild Encounters: A Journey into Nature’s Heart  

Arati Kumar-Rao in conversation with Mihiri Wikramanayake

Ever wondered what it’s like to camp out on a disappearing river island or track the footsteps of rare animals in the forest at dawn? A journey off-the-beaten-path with Arati Kumar-Rao into South Asia’s wildest, most mysterious corners – landscapes most people never even know exist, with captivating visuals, unexpected twists, and tales of misadventures. Arati will show how the remote, often overlooked, “marginlands” of South Asia are full of untold stories, bringing to life the people, wildlife, and fragile ecosystems that inhabit these edges of existence. Even in the most remote and forgotten parts of the world, nature’s wonders are waiting to be discovered—if you’re willing to get a little mud on your shoes.

1:30 pm – 2:00 pm | Lunch  

2:05 pm – 2:45 pm | Spies, Lies, and Soufflés 

Diana R Chambers in conversation with Ameena Hussein

Diana R Chambers dishes out the untold story of culinary icon Julia Child’s secret past as a World War II spy. In The Secret War of Julia Child, Chambers whisks readers away on a thrilling journey of espionage and intrigue, revealing how Child’s undercover exploits and love of foreign flavours helped shape her remarkable life. Blending history with suspense, Diana R Chambers offers a unique window into how wartime adventures can alter lives and inspire legacies, showing that the journey to becoming an icon is often complex and unpredictable.

2:50 pm – 3:35 pm | Grins in the Gloom

Graeme Simsion, Anne Buist in conversation with Ashok Ferrey

How can humour unexpectedly surface in darker subjects like crime and mental health, adding a dash of spice to storytelling? A playful mixing of genres—Graeme with his delightful blend of humour and romance, and Anne with her gripping psychological thrillers. Delve into The Rosie Series by Graeme Simsion, with insights into his collaborative processes, the inspiration behind his characters, and the profound themes that resonate with readers worldwide.

3:40 pm – 4:20 pm | Talk the Talk

Amit Varma in conversation with Shanaka Amarasinghe

Amit Varma shares his experiences as a successful podcaster and journalist, focusing on how to create long-form content that encourages critical thinking and attracts intellectual audiences. He could discuss how to choose topics, prepare for interviews, and manage the balance between accessibility and depth.

4:25 pm – 5:05 pm | Gods and Gold: Myths that Moved Markets  

Josephine Quinn in conversation with Pramod Kumar KG

Explore the interplay of mythology, religion, and commerce, to draw parallels between Mediterranean myths and South Asian legends, showing how these narratives fostered commerce and diplomatic ties across regions. Delve into the untold narratives of marginalised groups—such as women, traders, and everyday citizens—in ancient civilizations, while examining the lasting influence of ancient societies on modern culture. 

5:10 pm – 5:40 pm | Louder Than Silence [Storytelling]

Suli Breaks

Join Suli Breaks for an electrifying session that challenges societal norms and ignites thought-provoking dialogue. Experience the power of poetry as he weaves personal narratives with universal truths, inspiring audiences to reflect and engage.