In the lead-up to Australia Sports Innovation Week 2025 and the Australia India T20 cricket match, Andrew Walton, Managing Director of Sports Tech World Series, joins Head of Cultural Diplomacy Sudip Chakraborty to explore how technology is transforming the global sports landscape.

In this episode, Andrew shares insights on Victoria's vibrant sports ecosystem and discusses the exciting opportunities for collaboration between Victoria and India in sports technology and innovation, particularly as India pursues its bid for the 2036 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In this new episode of Chats Over Chai, Dr Alice Garner sits down with genealogist and record agent Rachel Croucher to explore the fascinating world of tracing Indian and South Asian heritage in Australia.

Rachel brings over 20 years of experience in historical research and genealogy, specialising in helping families uncover their ancestral stories. Her personal journey of discovering her own Punjabi Sikh ancestry has informed her deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by diaspora communities in reconnecting with their roots.

As part of the Indian and South Asian Special Research Group launched at the Society of Australian Genealogists during National Family History Month 2025, Rachel's work provides crucial support for Australians of South Asian heritage seeking to explore their family histories, particularly those impacted by historical events like partition.

The pair delve into the emotional and practical aspects of genealogical research, the parallels with other global diaspora communities, and how exploring family history can strengthen cultural identity and community connections for South Asian Australians.

Indian-born, Melbourne-based chef Helly Raichura and author of The Food of Bharat sits down with CEO of the Australia India Institute, Lisa Singh to discuss her passion for cooking authentic Indian regional cuisine with Australian produce which led to her opening her restaurant, Enter via Laundry.

In this episode Helly shares her migrant story from India to Australia, and how food diplomacy serves as a powerful bridge that transcends borders, builds understanding, and strengthens relationships through the universal language of sharing a meal and culinary traditions.