Watch Asian Provocateur

Asian Provocateur is a travel documentary series presented by the British comedian, actor, and writer Romesh Ranganathan. The show follows Ranganathan as he embarks on a journey to explore his roots and heritage in Sri Lanka, the birthplace of his parents. Accompanied by his mother, Shanthi Ranganathan, and his Uncle Vetty, the trio sets out on a hilariously quirky and culturally immersive quest to rediscover their familial and cultural roots.

The show is divided into two seasons, with the first season premiering in 2015 and the second season in 2016. The first season comprises three episodes, while the second season consists of six episodes, each of which is approximately an hour-long.

The show's first season sees Ranganathan taking on the challenge of reconnecting with his Sri Lankan heritage, despite his initial reluctance to do so. But with the help of his family members, he ventures out into the heart of Sri Lanka, exploring everything from its pristine beaches to its bustling cities and even its off-the-beaten-path villages.

Throughout the series, Ranganathan and his family immerse themselves in the local culture, customs, and traditions of Sri Lanka, including participating in traditional ceremonies, sampling exotic foods, and even trying out some of the country's most popular sports. Their journey also takes them through the country's turbulent and fascinating history, from its colonial past to its recent civil war.

In the show's second season, Ranganathan continues his voyage of discovery, this time journeying to other parts of Asia, including Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia. Along the way, he explores the unique cultures and customs of each country, taking part in everything from traditional tea ceremonies to learning the art of Thai boxing.

As with the first season, Ranganathan's journey in the second season is punctuated with humor and wit, as he struggles to navigate his way through unfamiliar surroundings and grapples with the cultural differences he encounters along the way.

One of the standout features of the show is the way it blends Ranganathan's hilarious brand of humor with insightful and heartfelt explorations of identity and culture. By deftly weaving together humor, emotion, and cultural commentary, the show ensures that it never feels trite or dismissive, despite its lighthearted tone.

Overall, Asian Provocateur is a delightful and eye-opening travelogue that offers a fascinating glimpse into the customs, traditions, and histories of some of Asia's most captivating countries. Whether you're a fan of travel documentaries, comedy, or heartwarming family stories, this show is guaranteed to entertain and enlighten you.