Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 24

 16 April - 15 May 2025 | Personal Journal 24

Welcome to the 24th edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers. This initiative aligns with my vision of fostering a vibrant and connected literary community. I warmly invite you to join me on this journey and share your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and endeavours.

NAI Youth of the Year Award 2025 – Saturday, 19 April 2025

Nai Academy Australia organised the NAI Youth of the Year Award 2025 at Guildford Community Centre to commemorate the 88th birth anniversary of the legendary Parijat.

During the event, Mr. Ram Prasad Koirala was honoured with the Nai Parijat Literary Award. Ms. Niru Tripathi (Melbourne) received the Nai Parijat Journalism Award, and Mrs. Sita Rasaili (Sydney) was honoured with the Nai Parijat Special Award.

Shabdamala Nepali Language School was also recognised, along with five outstanding young talents (ages 12–24), in the following categories:

Literature: Mokshada Amgai (Nepal)

Singing: Sandesh Paudel (Nepal)

Sports/Athletics: Miya Pun (Sydney)

Dance: Simon Sreepali (Sydney)

Dance: Gorima Rayamajhi (Melbourne)

The program was emceed by Pragya Paneru, Mukti Ram Pokharel, and Pranjali Khadka. Special thanks to Sima Roshi, Founder and President of Nai Academy Australia, for her dedication to promoting Nepali literature. Heartfelt gratitude to all organising committee members, participating writers, poets, and performers for your remarkable contributions in making this event a memorable success.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia Through Book Introductions – Sunday, 20 April 2025

As part of my ongoing initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers in Australia, this month I introduced Ghazal Mushayara: Special Edition 2081 — a powerful anthology of 57 ghazals by 57 Nepali poets, presented by Ghazal Mushayara Pariwar, Australia. Thank you to The DMN News for featuring this special edition on your online platform.

A decade of Nepali Ghazal in Australia: The Ghazal Mushayara Pariwar Legacy - The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal

14th Anniversary Celebration of International Nepali Literary Society (INLS), New South Wales Chapter, Australia-  22 April 2025

The International Nepali Literary Society (INLS), New South Wales Chapter, Australia, celebrated its 14th anniversary with a special virtual literary event. More than 30 poets and literary figures from various states of the USA and Australia participated in the program.

Founding members and former presidents—including Bhimsen Sapkota, Sanu Ghimire, Maheshwar Sharma, and Mamata Tiwari—shared memories of the chapter’s early days and expressed their happiness at its 14 years of success.

The program was chaired by Chapter President Dr. Prakash Poudel, who extended heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all poets and presenters, including Mamata Mishra, Mehta Ghimire Chapagain, Nanda Bhandari, Pragya Paneru, Prabin Tandon, Saurav Kiran Shrestha, Jenish Gautam, Ram Koirala, Prakash Tiwari, Bishnu Ghimire, Chaturbhuj Kharel, Muktiram Pokharel, Damanti Parajuli, Aayam Ghimire, Bhawana Parajuli, Rahul Aryal, Netra Poudel, Dr. Raju Manandhar, and Dr. Madhu Pudasaini.

The event was jointly hosted by General Secretary Bhawana Parajuli and Public Officer Muktiram Pokharel.

Crying Gorgeously; 4:37 am Lunch – Thursday, 1 May 2025

I had the pleasure of attending the launch of Crying Gorgeously; 4:37 am, a poetry collection by J. Marahuyo, held at WestWords Academy, Parramatta. As one of my Academy fellows, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to her on this debut collection.

It was inspiring to witness her creativity and passion shine through — from an award-winning poet to a published author. My best wishes for her book’s success — may it resonate widely with readers!

Curriculum and Textbook Development – May 2025

I’ve been actively involved in curriculum and textbook development for Shabdamala Nepali Language School. I’m pleased to share that My Nepali Lesson – Level 3 (Term 2) and Level 4 (Term 2) have been completed and are already being used in the classroom.

             

I’m deeply grateful to the school committee for their trust and support. Based on positive feedback, I am now working on the Lesson Book for Level 3 (Term 3) and Level 4 (Term 4), which I aim to complete by next month.

Feedback Sessions

This month, I also conducted several one-on-one feedback sessions with writers, reviewing their poems and children’s chapter books. It’s always a pleasure to engage deeply with emerging and established voices and contribute in small ways to their creative growth.

This month’s journal captures key moments in my journey to promote Australia-based Nepali literature—from celebrating talent at the NAI Youth of the Year Award 2025 to supporting new voices like J. Marahuyo at her book launch. I also introduced Ghazal Mushayara: Special Edition 2081 and continued curriculum development for Shabdamala School. Through ongoing feedback sessions with writers, I’m reminded of the power of community and storytelling. These experiences deepen my gratitude and reaffirm my commitment to building a literary space where diverse voices are valued and nurtured.

Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 23

15 March- 16 April 2025 | Personal Journal 23

Welcome to the 23rd edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Nepali literature and writers based in Australia. This initiative aligns with my vision of nurturing a vibrant literary community. I warmly invite you to join me on this journey and contribute your insights to enrich our shared efforts and collective growth.


Children’s Literature and Kabita (Poem) Calendar Program 2082 – Saturday, 22 March 2025

The Children’s Literature and Kabita (Poem) Calendar Program 2082 was successfully held online by The International Nepali Literary Society (INLS) Central Children's Committee, INLS NSW Chapter, and NAV Victoria, bringing together over 20 enthusiastic children from across Australia. Participants presented original poems, essays, and travel journals in the Nepali language. Selected poems from the event will be featured in the upcoming Nepali Calendar 2082 and a Children’s Literature Book, fostering continued engagement with literary traditions.

Heartfelt thanks to the organizers for creating a platform where young voices could shine. Special appreciation goes to the children representing the following language schools:

1. Shabdamala Nepali Language School
   

2. Pathashala Australia – Edmondson Park and Bardia
   

3. Samjhana Pathsala (Nepali)
   

4. Nepalese Association of Victoria – Bal Chautari Schools
   

5. Nepali Pathsala Adelaide

Barefoot Poetess Lunch- Thursday 27 March 2025

It was a pleasure to attend the launch of Barefoot Poetess, the second poetry collection by Paris Rosemont, organized by WestWords – the Western Sydney Centre for Writing. Paris’s poetic journey over the past three years is a testament to dedication and passion. The event featured moving performances and heartfelt recitations, making it a memorable literary evening.

 

Children’s Literary Program- Saturday 29 March, 2024

The International Nepali Literary Society, NSW Chapter successfully hosted a vibrant Children’s Literary Program featuring eighteen talented young Nepali writers and performers.

Participants— including Abhirubh Bastakoti, Anbhi Bastakoti, Apsana Parajuli, Mumal Shrestha, Shreya Paudel, Prashanna Babu Tiwari, Prajna Bhandari, Aditya Paudel, Akshita Timilsina, Ayusta Timilsina, Ruwana Gurung, Arya Dhakal, Simol Shripali, Aradhya Ghimire, Shreya Paudel, Nibhan Paudel, and Aayam Ghimire—recited their original poems and essays, and presented musical and dance performances celebrating Nepali culture and creativity.

 Aayam Ghimire and Shreya Paudel were recognized for their long-standing contributions and excellence in literary expression. Both received a certificate and a $100 cash prize. A special showcase of children’s books by author Saurav Kiran Shrestha offered young readers an opportunity to connect with contemporary Nepali literature.

The program was chaired by Dr. Prakash Paudel, President of INLS NSW, and conducted seamlessly by General Secretary Bhavana Parajuli and Public Officer Muktiram Pokhrel.

This 23rd edition of my journal highlights the vibrant growth of Nepali literature among children and writers in Australia. March featured two key events—the Children’s Literature and Kabita Calendar Program 2082 and the INLS Children’s Literary Program—which provided valuable platforms for young participants to express their creativity through poems, essays, and performances. It was especially inspiring to see the active involvement of language schools and literary organizations working together to preserve and promote the Nepali language and cultural heritage. Reflecting on these initiatives, I feel a renewed sense of hope and gratitude. They reaffirm my commitment to contributing to the development of a strong literary community—one where diverse voices are encouraged, nurtured, and celebrated across generations and geographic boundaries.

Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 22

16 February – 15 March 2025 | Personal Journal 22

Welcome to the 22nd edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers  in alignment with my vision of fostering a strong literary community. I warmly invite you to join me on this journey and share your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia Through Book Introductions – Friday, 25 February 2025

As part of my ongoing initiative to highlight Nepali heritage writers in Australia, this month I introduced the short story collection Jeevanka Rangharu, penned by Sydney-based Nepali author Basanta Prabin. Congratulations to Prabin for his contributions to humorous and satirical storytelling.

A big thank you to The DMN News for featuring this book on your platform. Please find the article at the link below, and feel free to share it on Facebook or other social media:

Jeevanka Rangharu: A blend of humor, satire, and realism - The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal

KidLit West Meeting – Saturday, 22 February 2025

I attended the first KidLit West meeting of 2025 at Max Webber Library, Blacktown. It was wonderful to reconnect with fellow writers and creatives including Artelle Lenthall, Dannielle Viera, and Zoe Alicia. We discussed the draft logo, website, and brainstormed ideas for enhancing KidLit in our vibrant Western Sydney community.

Curriculum and Textbook Development – March 2025

As mentioned in last month’s journal, I’ve been actively working on the curriculum and textbooks for Sabdamala Nepali Language School. I'm pleased to report that My Nepali Lesson – Level 3 (Term 1) has been completed and is already in use in the classroom.

I’m deeply grateful to the school committee for their trust and for giving me the opportunity to contribute to Nepali language education in Australia. Based on the feedback received, I am now working on the Lesson Book for Level 3 – Term 2, which I hope to complete by next month.

This month, I also conducted a few one-on-one sessions with writers, offering feedback on their works, including novels and poems. Some of my time was devoted to developing the new lesson book, which meant I wasn’t as active on social media as in previous months.

To everyone who reached out just to check in—thank you. Your calls have truly been like fuel, keeping me motivated on this journey I embarked upon nearly two years ago.
 

Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia - My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 21

16 January - 15 February 2025 : Personal Journal 21

Welcome to the 21st edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers in alignment with my vision of fostering a strong literary community. I warmly invite you to join me on this journey and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Meeting with Richa Gautam - Wednesday, 22 January 2025

I met an emerging and aspiring poet, Richa Gautam, at Blacktown City Library. During our meeting, I shared my vision, plans, and activities to promote Nepali writers based in Australia. I also had the opportunity to listen to her poetry recitation. I was impressed with her style, subject selection, and the emotional depth of her poetry.

Sanu Ghimire, who arranged the meeting, also shared her experience at the WestWord Academy 2024. We encouraged Richa to prepare and apply for the WestWord Academy 2025 and explained the importance of such courses for emerging writers like her in terms of creative and skill development. We also assured her of our guidance and support throughout the course.

My best wishes to her for a creative journey and success in poetry.

Curriculum and Textbook Development- Saturday, 7 February 2025

Since last year, I have been in constant conversation with Sabdamala Nepali Language School regarding the development of a comprehensive, place-based, and practical curriculum for students from Level 1 to Level 4.

Following the curriculum guidelines, I prepared a textbook, My Nepali Lesson - Level 3, for Term 1 with the objective of teaching the Nepali language through quality educational materials. Designed according to the age, abilities, and interests of children growing up in Australia, this curriculum emphasizes linguistic and creative development.

I would like to acknowledge the Curriculum Development Group, comprising Bishnu Ghimire, Jaya Thapa, Liza Karki, Sharda Manandhar, and Annu Mishra, for their support and expertise.

As a writer and editor, I have been given the responsibility of preparing textbooks for Levels 1 to 4 by the end of 2025. I am grateful to the Sabdamala Nepali Language School committee for their trust in me and for providing such a wonderful opportunity to contribute to Nepali language education in Australia.

Ghazal (Song) YouTube Premiere - Saturday, 8 February 2025

The Ghazal "Timi Aau Na", written, composed, and sung by our friend Komal Khatiwada, premiered on YouTube. It was a proud and joyous moment for me, as this Ghazal was originally written last year during our Ghazal Writing Workshops in Sydney.

Special thanks to Gyanu Walker Poudyal ji and Jitendra Malla for their contributions in running a series of workshops last year.

Please warmly welcome, enjoy, and share the Ghazal:

तिमी आउ न || नयाँ गजल लिरिकल || Timi Aau Na || New Nepali Ghazal Lyrical || 2025

I hope this Ghazal will inspire all of us who participated in last year's workshop to write, recite, and, if possible, release our own songs.

Congratulations to Komal ji on this new addition to his song/music collection!

To my knowledge, he released two children's songs last year. Please check them out as well.

https://youtu.be/ugeIHuYfFYo

https://youtu.be/XAUSwqAsx5c

This 21st edition of my journal highlights efforts to promote Nepali literature and writers in Australia. I met poet Richa Gautam, shared my vision, and encouraged her to apply for the WestWord Academy 2025. I collaborated with Sabdamala Nepali Language School to develop a comprehensive Nepali curriculum and authored My Nepali Lesson - Level 3. Additionally, the Ghazal "Timi Aau Na" by Komal Khatiwada premiered on YouTube, a proud outcome of our Ghazal Writing Workshops.

Lets foster literary growth and cultural preservation through education, mentorship, and creative initiatives.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia - My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 20

15 December 2024 - 15 January 2025 December: Personal Journal 20

Welcome to the 20th edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers in Australia in alignment with my vision of fostering a strong literary community. I warmly invite you to join me on this journey and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Samjhana Pathsala Annual Day Program 2024 – Sunday, 15 December 2024
It was a proud moment for me to witness the students of Samjhana Nepali Language School perform one of my scripts during the Samjhana Pathsala Annual Day Program 2024 at The Meadows Public School, Seven Hills.

A heartfelt thank you to teachers Bijaya Bhattarai and Sabhyata for transforming my words into a beautiful musical play on stage. Special appreciation to the MCs Pratigya Adhikari, Arya Nepal, and Sadikshya for hosting the event with grace and professionalism.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to Prakriti Shrestha, President of the Blacktown Nepali Community (BNC), and Principal Saraswati Ghimire for their unwavering support. The program also featured vibrant performances from the Youth Group and Mother’s Group, along with a certificate distribution ceremony.

Meeting with Keshav Sharma – Tuesday, 24 December 2024

I had the pleasure of meeting Keshav Sharma, a well-known figure in the Nepali community in Brisbane. We had briefly met during the Ghazal Mushayara 2024 event in Sydney, where I was inspired by his passion for Ghazal and poetry writing and his dedication to promoting Nepali culture.

During our meeting at a café in Brisbane, we discussed various initiatives to support and promote Nepali writers in Australia. It was truly motivating to discover our shared aspirations, and I hope we can soon organize something meaningful for Nepali writers in Brisbane. 

He is also known as a presenter of the Nepali radio program on Radio 4EB 98.1 for many years. Broadcasting weekly in Nepali since 2006, the program aims to enhance the visibility of the Nepali community in Brisbane within Queensland's multicultural society. My best wishes are always with him as a newly elected President of the Queensland Nepali Cultural Centre (QNCC) and as an inspiring community leader! 

Meeting with DMNC Representatives – Friday, 3 January 2025

I had a productive online meeting with Dipendra Ray and Samu Upreti, the Secretary and Treasurer of The Doreen Mernda Nepalese Community Inc. (DMNC), Melbourne. Our discussion focused was on: Developing a curriculum for the Nepali language school and Organizing creative writing programs for children,

I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with DMNC in 2025 to run creative workshops and literary programs, hopefully in 2025.

It was also great to learn that DMNC is currently operating the NAV BAAL Chautari (Nepali Language School) Doreen Mernda branch in response to the growing Nepali community and Nepali language students in Doreen and Mernda. DMNC initially established the "Baal Bikash Pathsala" in 2019, which was later brought under NAV BAAL CHAUTARI.

DMNC is organizing a Community Gala Dinner on 8 February 2025 to raise funds for the NAV BAAL CHAUTARI Doreen Mernda branch. I extend my best wishes for the success of this event!

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia - My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 19

16 October - 15 December: Personal Journal 19

Welcome to the 19th edition of my journal!

In this issue, I have covered activities from the past two months, considering the Nepali festive season and personal commitments. This journal remains dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers, in line with my vision. As always, I warmly invite you to join me on this journey and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Meeting with Margaret and the WSKL Group -Saturday, 26 October 2024

The Western Sydney KidLit (WSKL) Writing and Critique Group organized a meeting with Margaret Redrup-May from Blacktown City Library at Max Webber Library. Margaret shared her experiences at the library and discussed her support for writers’ groups, particularly those from multicultural backgrounds. She also highlighted library activities for children, such as Story Time and storytelling sessions.

We shared our experiences as Western Sydney Children’s Writers and explored ways in which Blacktown Library could support the WSKL group and local writers. The meeting concluded positively.

Interestingly, I first met Margaret exactly a year ago during a Nepali book donation event at the library. After the meeting, we proceeded with our regular feedback session on manuscripts. Thanks to Artelle for leading the group and inspiring members like Joanne, Dannielle, and myself to keep the group thriving. I’m optimistic this meeting will lead to positive outcomes in 2025.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia Through Book Introductions - Friday, 25 October 2024

As part of my initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers in Australia, this month I introduced Colossal Love: My Life’s Journey, a memoir by Sydney-based Nepali author Ram Prasad Koirala. Dedicated to his beloved grandmother, this book is a compelling read about transforming a life of contradictions, illusions, and struggles into a fulfilling journey marked by determination, success, and celebration.

Thank you to The DMN News for featuring this book on your platform. Please find the link below and consider sharing it on Facebook or other social media platforms:

Colossal Love: Echoes of a Grandmother’s Wisdom - The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal

Story Writing and Feedback Sessions - November 2024

Two story-writing sessions were held with Mamata Tiwari and Bhabana Parjuli at Blacktown Library on Tuesday, 12 November, and Sunday, 17 November, respectively. Both are Sydney-based aspiring poets now venturing into short story writing.    

       

During these sessions, we discussed various elements of storytelling and provided constructive feedback on their drafts. Special thanks to Sanu Ghimire for coordinating the sessions. Best wishes to Mamata and Bhabana Ji on their creative journeys, especially in short story writing.

Sabdamala 10th Annual Day - Sunday, 17 November 2024

I had the pleasure of attending Sabdamala Nepali Language School’s 10th Annual Gala Night at Bowman Hall, Blacktown. It was heartening to see the school and its events grow better and bigger each year. Congratulations to the Sabdamala team for your unwavering dedication to promoting Nepali language and culture among our children.

Graduation of the WestWord 2024 Academy - Friday, 13 December 2024

It was a joyous moment to witness the graduation of the WestWord 2024 Academy and the showcase of participating writers in Parramatta. A total of 12 poems and pieces of writing were presented.

The event was organized by Shakira, Hemat, and Anna emcced by Sanu Ghimire and Brittany. Thank you to WestWord for successfully completing a program that encourages and empowers emerging writers in Western Sydney. Congratulations to all the graduates, and best wishes for your creative journeys ahead!

 

I’m delighted to share that WestWord will continue this program in 2025. I strongly encourage emerging and aspiring writers, especially from Western Sydney, to take advantage of this valuable learning and mentoring opportunity. The deadline for Expressions of Interest (EOI) is 24 February 2025. Don’t forget to check the link!

Westwords Academy - Westwords

All the events I participated in, organized, and initiated throughout 2024 reflect my unwavering commitment to fostering Nepali literature and empowering writers in Australia. From promoting local authors to supporting aspiring writers and celebrating cultural milestones, this journey has been both inspiring and fulfilling.

As we step into 2025, I encourage everyone to actively engage in these initiatives—whether by participating in workshops, sharing literary works, or celebrating our rich cultural heritage. Together, we can nurture creativity and build a vibrant literary community.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s continue to inspire and grow together! 

Wishing you a Happy New Year 2025!

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia - My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 18

16 September - 15 October: Personal Journal 18

Welcome to the eighteenth edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers, in alignment with my vision. I warmly invite you to join me on this journey and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Storytelling Session - Sunday, 22 September 2024

After a long break, I conducted a storytelling session at Sabdamala Nepali Language School, St. Mary. I read two of my stories, Kaichi Babu and Gajjab ko Garjan. Both stories were attentively listened to by 33 students, parents, and teachers. I thoroughly enjoyed the participants' energy and enthusiasm during the session. My sincere thanks to Dipen Baniya and Ritu Khanal Ji for organizing this and inviting me as a storyteller.

Celebrating the 10th Ghazal Mushayara Event - Sunday, 22 September 2024

It was a pleasure to attend the 10th Ghazal Mushayara Event at the Civic Theatre in Hurstville, NSW. During the event, a Ghazal collection titled Ghazal Mushayara Special Edition 2081 was launched, which also highlights the journey of the event since its inception in 2015.

Over 45 Ghazals were recited by 23 poets. The lively and electrifying event was filled with passionate Ghazal lovers and listeners from across Australia. Hearty congratulations to all who have joined the Ghazal movement in Australia and contributed to its successful 10-year milestone. Special thanks to Jitendra Malla for his continued leadership within the Ghazal Mushayara family.

Love Your Bookshop Day - Saturday, 12 October 2024

I attended the Love Your Bookshop Day and The Gift of Imagination: Tips for Young Writers event at Five Senses Seven Hills, a wonderful bookshop. The event was attended by children, parents, and local authors. An anthology of students’ stories, Come Venture with Me, was launched, facilitated and mentored by children’s author Artelle Lenthall.

Some of the children read their stories. Highlights included readings by children’s authors Dannielle Viera and Zoe Alicia Gaetjens, who also shared valuable tips for young writers. Some useful tips were:

• Just write.
• Enjoy your writing; if you aren’t, you’re not writing.
• The first draft isn’t the final draft.
• You can’t edit a blank page.
• The best writing happens when you allow others' ideas to influence you.
• Allow feedback in your writing.
• Read a book more than once: the first time for enjoyment and the second for analysis.
• If you like writing, attend events like this.
• Read, read, and read some more.

I would like to congratulate Artelle Lenthall for her inspiring work and this successful event.

Nepali Writers in Australia - Online Page

I am planning to create an online page titled Nepali Writers in Australia (working title) in 2025. The page will compile profiles of Australia based Nepali-origin writers and authors who share Nepali culture and language. It will include writers' brief literary biodata, their aspirations, and a list of their publications. I believe such a database will be valuable for research and for promoting Nepali literature, books, and writers in Australia and other parts of the world.

As I reflect on this month, I feel a deep sense of satisfaction and motivation. My involvement in these events reaffirms my commitment to supporting and promoting Nepali literature in Australia. Moving forward, I am determined to continue these efforts and expand on them, particularly through the creation of the online page, which I believe will be an important resource for both readers and researchers. I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to contributing further to the literary landscape here in Australia.