Half Day Pass – Afternoon, 17th January 2025

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 – 3:30 pm | 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.

3:35 pm – 4:20 pm | Islanded and Connected

Coming Soon

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.