Welcome to the fourth edition of my monthly journal, where I document my efforts to promote Nepalese literature and writers (AB) and remain true to my commitments. I invite you to read along and share your valuable insights to enrich my learning and initiatives.
Celebrating the 210th Bhanu Jayanti in Rockdale- Saturday, 15 July 2023
The International Nepalese Literature Society-NSW organized the 210th Bhanu Jayanti event at Rockford College, Rockdale. Bhanu Jayanti is an annual observance held on July 13th (29th Asar in the Nepali month) to honor Bhanubhakta Acharya (1814–1868), the Nepali writer renowned for translating the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit to Nepali. Bhanubhakta Acharya, often referred to as "Aadikabi," meaning "the first poet," holds a pivotal position in Nepali literature.
During this event, we also celebrated the contributions of Motiram Bhatta (1866–1896), who played a significant role in promoting Bhanubhakta Acharya's Ramayan and shaping Nepali language and literature.
Noted poets like Dr. Madhu Sudan Pudasaini, Maheshwar Sharma, Nisprabh Saji, Pratigya Adhikari, Sima Roshi, Ram Koirala, Bishnu Ghimire, Prabin Tandan, Jitendra Malla, and many more graced the event with their poetry recitations. Distinguished guests Dhruba Hari Adhikari, Dr. Narayan Pradhan, and Nanda Gurung (President NRNA-Australia) added to the occasion's significance. Mamata Tiwari chaired the program, while Prakash Poudel skillfully hosted the event. 
Personally, the day was memorable for me as I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Narayan Pradhan, the claimed first Nepali migrant to Australia. I look forward to meeting him to explore into his journey and experiences, hoping to gain valuable insights.
Another delightful encounter was with Jitendra Malla, the pioneer behind the 'Ghazal Mushayara Pariwar,' an informal group of Ghazal writers in Sydney. I extended my best wishes for his upcoming event Gazal Mushayara scheduled for August 23, 2023, at Civic Theater, Hurstville. I'm eagerly anticipating these events. 
Samjhana Pathshala Term 3 Meeting and Library Bag Handover- Sunday,16 July 2023
Participating in the Lesson Planning Meeting at Samjhana Pathshala in Seven Hills was insightful. Our discussions revolved around curriculum design, addressing teacher challenges and opportunities, managing growing student numbers, and enhancing student discipline.
After the meeting, a library bag containing over 40 children’s books in Nepali was handed over to Sitaram Ghimire (President of Blacktown Nepalese Community-Australia) and Prakriti Shrestha (Principal of Samjhana Pathshala). It is my hope that this portable library will prove beneficial for both students and educators.
SAFAL 2023 Meeting- Tuesday, 18 July 2023
I attended a core team meeting for the South Asian Film, Arts & Literature (SAFAL) Fest 2023 at Wenty Leagues, Wentworthville. This annual event, organized by the Australian South Asia Forum Inc. (ASAF), celebrates the diverse arts and culture of South Asian nations. ASAF was established in 2017 under the leadership of Ash Gholkar, and the festival debuted in 2019.
Our discussions covered the organizing committee, promotional flyers, budget allocation, and various performances like dance, singing, poetry, paintings, and photography. Program dates were set for September 23 and 30, 2023, for the performances and Gala, respectively, at North Ryde School of Arts Community Centre and Pioneer Theatre in Sydney.
The attendees included Ash Gholkar, Kadarnath Pagaddinnimath, Reza Rayan, Sakina Akter, Sanu Ghimire, Saurav Kiran Shrestha, Kavitha Jeyakumar, and Sriyani Tenekoon. The meeting was presided over by Saliya Tennakoon (Festival Director SAFAL 2023).
For detailed event information, please visit: SAFAL FEST 2023
Max Weber Library Visit with Dhurba Hari Ghimire- Friday, 28 July 2023
Our discussions centered on Nepali literature and writers, brainstorming ways to enhance their presence in Australia. I am excited to announce that a book donation program to the library is planned for September. Dhurba dai expressed his willingness to contribute books.
During our interactions, Dhurba dai advised me to use 'Nepali' instead of 'Nepalese.' Although I'm yet to understand his perspective fully, I believe a discussion or meeting to elaborate on this could have far-reaching effects, especially among Nepali writers and authors on national and international platforms and forums including Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and International Nepali Literary Society (INLS).
Living Stories Showcase- Sunday, 30 July 2023
I attended the Living Stories Showcase at WestWords, Parramatta. Being a part of the Living Stories Western Sydney Writing Prize project as a member of the judging panel for two consecutive years, 2022 and 2023, was an honor. This creative writing competition has been a remarkable platform, and I extend my gratitude to WestWords for nurturing emerging writers in Western Sydney.
The published books 'Things Unsaid 2022' and 'The Other City 2023' that compile winning and highly commended entries are commendable efforts.
Congratulations to all winning writers and participants for their outstanding contributions. Meeting some of you during the event was a true pleasure.
Sabdamala Library Bag Handover- Sunday, 6 August 2023
I handed over a library bag to Bishnu Ghimire, the president of Sabdamala Nepali Language School in Granville. The bag contains around 40 children's books in Nepali, including picture books, aimed at enhancing students' proficiency in the Nepali language.
Sabdamala is a registered community language school that has grown since its inception in 2010. With more than 300 students across various branches in Sydney, its primary objective is to create an enriching environment for teaching and learning Nepalese language, culture, and heritage among school-aged children. I hope these resources will aid the students' learning journey.
NINFA Event- Sunday, 13 August 2023
I attended an event organized by the Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities Forum Australia to commemorate the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People 2023 at Petersham Town Hall, NSW. The event was a vibrant showcase of Nepali indigenous culture, including ethnic parades and dance performances. My sincere thanks to Sanu Ghimire for sharing information and accompanying me.
In my conversation with Anil ji, we discussed the importance of developing a common syllabus for Nepali language schools across Australia. As the Nepali community grows, this could be a priority for NRNA. 
Taking a photo with Councillor Bhadra was a proud moment, as she represents both the Nepali and Nepali indigenous communities in the Canterabury Bankstown City Council.
I also had the pleasure of meeting Ken P, a singer, songwriter, and musician who has authored three collections of poems and songs. We look forward to discussing his journey in literature and music further.
Nepali Authors in Australia
Since embarking on my journey in April 2023 to spotlight Australia-based Nepali Writers/Authors and Literature, I've had the privilege of meeting several accomplished writers/authors. Each interaction has been a source of motivation and inspiration.
I've read and introduced a couple of books so far, aiming to showcase and promote Nepali authors and literature to English readers in Australia. Rather than terming it 'book review,' I prefer to call it a 'Book Introduction.'
I'm delighted to share that I've published three Book Introductions on Nepal Live Today, an online platform:
"Sambedanako Aakar" - A Poems Collection by Maheshwar Sharma (27 May 2023)
"Blacktown to Bhutan" - Memoir by Om Dhungel (19 July 2023)
"Sydney Sapana" - A Novel by Sanu Ghimire Jyotsana (19 August 2023)
Key action plans stemming from this month include:
- Documenting activities, interactions, and initiatives through monthly journals.
- Engaging in events such as Bhanu Jayanti, SAFAL Fest, and other literary celebrations.
- Recognizing and honoring Nepali literary figures for their contributions to literature in Australia.
- Establishing connections with poets, writers, and literary enthusiasts.
- Collaborating with organizations like the International Nepalese Literature Society-NSW.
- Implementing library initiatives and book donation programs.
- Partnering with Nepali language schools to offer expertise and resources, including books and materials.
- Attending events to meet notable personalities, writers, and community leaders.
- Participating in discussions to exchange insights and knowledge, including efforts to standardize 'Nepali' terminology.
- Promoting Nepali literature by continuously reading and introducing books by Australian based Nepali authors.
- Publishing "Book Introductions" to attract the interest of English-speaking readers.
- Networking with indigenous community leaders to explore potential collaborations.
- Initiating the development of a standardized syllabus for Nepali language schools in Australia.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to more exciting developments in the coming months.
