Full Day Pass – 19th January 2025

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

9:45 am – 10:30 am | Islanded and Connected

Sujit Sivasundaram, Shamara Wettimuny in conversation with Judith Perera

Sujit Sivasundaram and Shamara Wettimuny come together to explore how Sri Lanka’s rich and complex history resonates globally while remaining uniquely local. Drawing on Sujit’s insights into the Indian Ocean as a stage for revolutionary ideas, the discussion delves into the historical role of dissent and resistance. Complementing this, Shamara’s work on shifting identities examines how alternative discourses can challenge dominant narratives of hate and division. Together, they highlight the importance of uncovering marginalised voices and reframing history to better understand global patterns and local identities.

10:35 am – 11:15 am | A Wednesday Every Decade

Naseeruddin Shah in conversation with Rehan Mudannayake

Naseeruddin Shah will reflect on his experience working with legends of the past and the rising stars of today, drawing from insights shared in his book And Then One Day: A Memoir. Shah will discuss how acting techniques, storytelling, and the industry itself have transformed across generations. He will discuss the differences in approach between his generation and today’s actors, the impact of digital platforms like Netflix and Amazon on cinema, and how emerging technologies are reshaping cinema. Through stories from his memoir, he can deep dive into what’s been lost and gained in this new era.

11:20 am – 12:00 pm | Diversity Reckoning

Max Czollek in conversation with Savithri Rodrigo

Max Czollek presents his vision for “radical diversity” as an alternative to the traditional politics of tolerance and assimilation. Drawing on his critiques of post-WWII German cultural policies, Czollek argues for a future where diversity is embraced not as an exception but as a fundamental principle, examining how radical diversity reshapes the way we view citizenship, culture, and politics, pushing for a more inclusive and multifaceted societal structure that transcends binary notions of identity. Czollek also brings a critical lens to the ongoing immigration crisis in Germany as an opportunity to rethink national identity and the social integration of displaced communities, advocating for peace through mutual recognition.

12:05 pm – 12:50 pm | From Frangipani Gardens to Battlegrounds

Ramya Jirasinghe, Vihanga Perera in conversation with Sukanya Wignaraja

Ramya Jirasinghe and Vihanga Perera come together for a powerful conversation on the transformative role of poetry in healing and understanding. Ramya will explore themes of love, loss, and reconciliation in post-war Sri Lanka, drawing from her collection Love Poems from a Frangipani Garden, while Vihanga will share how real-life experiences shape his topical, poignant poetry. Together, they’ll discuss how poetry bridges divides and offers solace in challenging times.

12:55 pm – 1:35 pm | Science Under Siege

Shawn Otto in conversation with Chevaan Daniel

Shawn Otto explores the roles of media, education, and social networks in shaping public perception and learning how to counteract misinformation. The session will also focus on understanding how to analyse scientific claims, emphasising the importance of scepticism and the cultivation of a questioning mindset in a world rife with conflicting information.

1:35 pm – 2:05 pm | Lunch

2:10 pm – 2:50 pm | Many Loves, From the Greeks

Molly Roden Winter in conversation with Shrayana Bhattacharya

An unfiltered discussion about the ethics and emotional realities of open marriages, based on Winter’s provocative memoir More: A Memoir of Open Marriage. How do you handle jealousy when love is shared across multiple partners? How do transparency and communication become the foundations of trust? Molly offers her personal insights from navigating her own open marriage—highlighting the ups, downs, and everything in between.

2:55 pm – 3:40 pm | The Interplay of Politics and Trade: Insights into Sri Lanka’s Policies

Razeen Sally, Murtaza Jafferjee, Nisthar Cassim in conversation with Rehana Thowfeek

A critical examination of the intricate relationship between political dynamics and trade policy decisions in Sri Lanka. The panelists will explore how political stability, governance, and policy frameworks influence trade agreements and economic strategies. The discussion will highlight challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption, and shifting political priorities that hinder trade growth. Conversely, it will identify opportunities for enhancing international partnerships, promoting sustainable practices, and leveraging Sri Lanka’s strategic geographic position. By analysing these factors, the session aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to navigate the evolving trade landscape effectively.

3:45 pm – 4:25 pm | The Storyteller’s Palette

Jerry Pinto in conversation with Graeme Simsion

Shining a light on Jerry Pinto’s creative genius across original writing, translations, and biographies and children’s literature. From the emotional depth of Em and The Big Hoom to the coming-of-age themes in The Education of Yuri, and his translations of Cobalt Blue and Baluta, the discussion will uncover Pinto’s creative process, storytelling philosophy, and his approach to translation. Attendees will gain insight into the humour, empathy, and social awareness that tie together his varied works, making them resonate across audiences.

4:30 pm – 5:10 pm | Ghosts of Legacy

Pramod Kumar KG in conversation with Sujit Sivasundaram

Explore South Asia’s rich, unconventional archives—oral stories, cultural expressions, and everyday sayings—that go beyond paper trails. Pramod Kumar KG dives into the importance of these overlooked memories and the urgent need to preserve them. The discussion also tackles the global movement to return cultural artefacts, highlighting their deep ties to community identity and history. This session highlights the ethical duty to honour and preserve South Asia’s intangible heritage within the broader historical preservation landscape.

5:15 pm – 5:55 pm | A Suitable Recitation [ a performance on Vikram Seth]

Ratna Pathak Shah, Naseeruddin Shah

Ratna Pathak Shah and Naseeruddin Shah embark on a whimsical journey through Vikram Seth’s iconic poem The Elephant and the Tragopan, infusing their theatrical prowess with a splash of humour and creativity.

5:55 pm – 6:00 pm | Closing Address