Asian Provocateur Season 1 Episode 3 3. Uncle Rubaharan

In "Asian Provocateur" season 1 episode 3 titled "3. Uncle Rubaharan," viewers are introduced to Romesh's Uncle Rubaharan as he takes a trip to Sri Lanka to trace his family's roots. As soon as he arrives in the country, Romesh meets Rubaharan who unexpectedly takes him on a spiritual journey to the ancient city of Anuradhapura.

The episode starts with Romesh's arrival in Sri Lanka. He is excited to explore the country and learn more about his family history. After he meets Uncle Rubaharan, he quickly realizes that his uncle is a unique character. Rubaharan is a devout Hindu who is on a quest for enlightenment. He wears traditional clothes, carries a big stick, and speaks with an air of authority. Romesh discovers that he has a lot to learn from his uncle as he introduces him to the country's culture, traditions, and beliefs.

Uncle Rubaharan surprises Romesh by taking him to a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site called Anuradhapura. The city was once the capital of Sri Lanka and is known for its religious significance. Uncle Rubaharan tells Romesh that he should experience the city's spiritual atmosphere to gain a deeper understanding of the country's ancient culture.

Romesh is hesitant at first, as he knows nothing about Buddhism. But he soon finds himself immersed in the city's history and surrounded by ancient temples, statues, and ruins. Uncle Rubaharan guides him around the city, sharing stories about the local kings, their temples, and the Buddhist monks who lived there.

One of the most memorable moments of the episode is when Romesh and Uncle Rubaharan visit an ancient temple called Ruwanweliseya. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka and is believed to contain one of the Buddha's relics. Uncle Rubaharan insists that Romesh takes part in a traditional Buddhist ceremony to honor the Buddha's relic. Romesh is unsure about taking part in the ceremony, but his uncle convinces him to give it a go.

Throughout the episode, viewers learn more about Sri Lanka's religious and cultural beliefs, from Hinduism to Buddhism. Uncle Rubaharan explains how these traditions are intertwined and influence each other. He is a firm believer in respecting other religions and encourages Romesh to learn from them.

The episode ends with Romesh reflecting on his experience in Anuradhapura and the lessons he learned from Uncle Rubaharan. He realizes that he has gained a new appreciation for his family's heritage and the country's diverse culture. Overall, "Asian Provocateur" season 1 episode 3 is an engaging and entertaining journey through Sri Lanka's spiritual culture, guided by an eccentric but wise figure, Uncle Rubaharan.