Redefining Roots, Together:
BAC ICS' Culture In Conversation

The BAC ICS (Indian Cultural Society) was truly honoured to host PoetICS of Culture, a vibrant talk and discussion session celebrating cultural heritage with an expression.

This memorable event brought together cultural thought leaders, students and creatives for a deep dive into the intersections of identity, tradition and modern expression.

Ben G, a Celebrated Malaysian Indian cinema artist - also known as Ganteeban) is a highly accomplished Malaysian film director, singer & lyricist, dancer, host, actor, screenwriter, dance choreographer, stunt coordinator and a producer. With a remarkable career spanning over 30 years, he has made a significant impact on the Malaysian entertainment industry.

He is well known for his versatility and creative vision and has worked extensively in both the Malay and English film industries for more than two decades, earning him numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the Malaysian cinema industry.

Govind Singh – Prominent Malaysian Indian cinema figure, also a Malaysian actor, filmmaker and scriptwriter, is known for his contributions to both Malaysian and Indian cinema. With a strong presence in the regional film industry, he has earned recognition for his talent and storytelling.

His directorial debut, Senthozhan Sengkathirvaanan, marked a significant milestone in his career. The film earned him a nomination for Best Debut Director at the prestigious Festival Filem Malaysia and he went on to win Best Director and Best Movie at the Norway International Film Festival - a testament to his skill and vision as a filmmaker.

Gopala Krishnan - Senior Lecturer and distinguished educationalist has over 35 years of experience in English Language Teaching (ELT), TESL, Linguistics and Literature. His remarkable career spans every level of education, from primary schools to universities, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the transformative power of language and learning.

He is currently serving at BAC as the Programme Manager for Curriculum & Teacher Development, and Senior Lecturer. He continues to inspire both students and fellow educators through his depth of knowledge, pedagogical insight and enduring passion for teaching. A lifelong torchbearer of language, he is shaping minds through words and touching hearts through stories, culture and poetry.

Kogulan– The vibrant voice of Raaga and our dynamic host for the evening, is a passionate radio DJ known for his energy, creativity and love for the arts. A budding YouTuber and digital content creator, he brings inspiring ideas to life through music, video and engaging online content.

Deeply passionate about singing, beatboxing and all forms of artistic expression, Kogulan continues to explore new ways to connect with audiences on air and online, driven by his mission to entertain, inspire and innovate.

Session Highlights

The event kick started with a fun and interactive Kahoot quiz, exploring aspects of Indian culture, sparking thought-provoking engagement among students. This was followed by a candid and reflective discussion session centred on the theme , cultural perspective for the students as the speakers’ explored questions such as cultural pressure, society’s expectations, common stereotypes in Indian communities, traditions and the impact on youth and cultural expression today.

Each guest brought unique perspectives to the discussion. Gopala Krishnan explored how education can be a tool to dismantle inherited biases and uplift cultural appreciation. Ben G and Govind Singh both offered insights into how media and cinema can either reinforce or challenge stereotypes. The student voices also played a vital role, connecting personal experiences to broader cultural themes.

The session was brought to life by Kogulan’s energetic and thoughtful hosting, which ensured the conversation remained relatable, inclusive and eye-opening.

Key Takeaways for everyone

• Awareness is the first step. Recognising internalised and external stereotypes helps us break the cycle. Your actions and decision decide you.
• Media matters: Representation in film and radio plays a powerful role in shaping perceptions of Indian identity.
• Education empowers: Schools and universities are critical spaces for encouraging dialogue about identity and diversity.
• Celebrate, don’t stereotype! Indian culture is diverse. Embracing differences within it makes the community stronger.
• Youth voices are vital. The younger generation has the agency to redefine cultural narratives and preserve heritage in modern ways.

This was truly a meaningful event for all who attended. An inspiring celebration of culture, expression, unity, and shared wisdom.

Join BAC ICS as they continue to go beyond melodies and myths, embracing the spirit of “Our Culture, Our Identity.”