On this episode, Dr. Seema Desai has a conversation with a truly remarkable guest: Dr. Deepak Kumar, a computer science professor at UC San Diego who also happens to be a playwright, composer, and lyricist. From cybersecurity research to staged readings at the Old Globe, Deepak’s journey is anything but conventional. They have a vulnerable and inspiring conversation that explores creativity, failure, and the emotional depth behind his newest play, House of India, a story set in a small-town Indian restaurant wrestling with legacy, identity, and change.

If you’ve ever felt stuck between practicality and passion, or wondered if it’s too late to start something new, this episode will leave you both challenged and refreshed. Deepak’s reflections on beginner’s mind, detachment, and the joy of rediscovering play are layered with wit and humility, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking to balance ambition with authenticity.

Deepak Kumar is a professor of Computer Science & Engineering at UC San Diego and a playwright, lyricist, and composer. His computing work focuses on how to make Internet systems safer and more secure. His plays tackle the questions that keep him up at night, whether they be about Asianness, technology, youth, board games, or soul-eating demons. His shows have been developed and produced all over, with some highlights including The Old Globe and The Eugene O'Neill Theatre Center. He is a MacDowell Colony fellow and is currently on commission from Audible and Arena Stage.

The views expressed in the podcast do not reflect the views of any organization affiliated with the hosts or any guest.

Connect with Dr. Deepak Kumar:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_kumarde/

House of India tickets: https://www.theoldglobe.org/pdp/25-season/house-of-india/#?startDate=2025-05-01&%3FendDate=2025-05-31

Links:

Dinesh Melwani http://www.dineshmelwani.com, IG @dineshmelwani

Seema Desai http://www.drseemadesai.com, IG @dr.seemadesai

Happy and Human Podcast on IG @happyandhumanpodcast

Plays, PhD's, and the Beginner’s Mind with Dr. Deepak Kumar