Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 17

16 August - 15 September: Personal Journal 17

Welcome to the seventeenth 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.

Meeting with Jenisha Gautam - Saturday, 27 August 2024

I have met Jenisha Gautam casually at several community events but haven’t had enough time to talk and share our respective visions for promoting arts, culture, and literature in Australia. Fortunately, I met her at the 2024 Blacktown Multicultural Award Event at The Colebee, Doonside, NSW, where we exchanged our ideas and initiatives. I was pleased to learn that she is involved in many projects and is releasing a song 'Biratako Desh' that she composed, wrote, and sang herself.

We also discussed the possibility of collaborating on a joint program or event for children in the future. My best wishes to the versatile artist Jenisha for her upcoming music, performances, and events.

Colossal Love: My Life’s Journey - Launch Event - Saturday, 31 August 2024

I would like to congratulate Ram Prasad Koirala on launching his book Colossal Love: My Life’s Journey today at his residence in Bella Vista, Sydney.

It has been exactly a year since I met him at Om Dhungel’s home during a small gathering. I was fascinated by his storytelling, which has now been published as a book. Later, we met at 2by4 Café on the morning of Saturday, September 30, 2023, where he handed me a few copies of his book Meri Uni ra Ma to read and donate to local libraries. At the same time, he mentioned his plans to publish the English version of the book.

It was truly a pleasure to witness his determination and persistence in getting his memoir, dedicated to his beloved grandmother and mother, translated and revised from Meri Uni Ra Ma (2022) for English readers. During the event, his daughters Archana and Aparna expressed their happiness and gratitude. Other speakers, Yadav Dhungel and Bhagwat Khanal, shared insights into the life journey of the author, Ram P. Koirala, his experience of life without his mother, and the love, care, and influence of his grandmother on his personal and professional life.

The program was emceed by Bijaya Ram Baidhya, who also contributed as the book’s editor. My best wishes to Ram Prasad Koirala for his vision of promoting and launching this English version in multiple countries in honor of his mother, grandmother, and UNICEF.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia through Book Introductions - Friday, 30 August 2024

Continuing my initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers and their literature in Australia, this month I introduced Prembasti (English translation: Love Colony), a collection of poems by Sydney-based Nepali author Shweta Mainali. Please welcome it as warmly as previous book introductions.

Thank you to The DMN News for providing space on their online platform. Please check the link below for the book introduction and remember to share it on your Facebook or other social media platforms.

Crafting a Love Colony: The Poetic World of Shweta Mainali - The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal

Project 2024 Update - August-September 2024

I would like to thank Jiva Nath Lamsal for facilitating another online session for the project and providing constructive feedback on three stories during the session on 21 August.

I and Sanu Ghimire met with Michael Campbell and Ally Burnham at WestWord on Monday, 2 September, to discuss project updates and future planning. I also ran another session on Understanding and Use of Conflict in Story Writing on Saturday, 7 September 2024.

Reflecting on this month, I met with Jenisha Gautam and discussed potential collaborations on future cultural programs. I was also inspired by Ram Prasad Koirala and his dedication to sharing his life story, which honors his mother and grandmother. His persistence in publishing both the Nepali and English versions of his book Colossal Love: My Life’s Journey is truly commendable. Additionally, I introduced Prembasti by Shweta Mainali, a collection of poems, as part of my ongoing commitment to showcasing Nepali authors based in Australia. I also facilitated project sessions, including one focused on story writing.

It’s been a productive period of community engagement and literary promotion. Thank you to all.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 16

 16 July - 15 August: Personal Journal 16

Welcome to the sixteenth edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers in line with my vision. I extend a warm invitation for you to join me on this journey and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia - Tuesday, 23 July 2024

Continuing my initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers and their literature in Australia, this month I introduced Bishanu Ree, a book by Sydney-based Nepali author Pragya. I hope you will welcome it as warmly as previous book introductions. Thank you to The DMN News for providing space on your online platform. Please check the link below for the book introduction and remember to share the link on your FB or social media.

Bishanu Ree: Many stories, one novel - The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal

Western Sydney Writers of KidLit (WSWK) Critique Meeting - Saturday, 27 July 2024

It was wonderful to listen to the pre-read of two picture book manuscripts written by Artelle and Dannielle at the Western Sydney Writers of KidLit (WSWK) critique meeting today. Every time we provide or receive feedback, I feel that a part of me as a writer is learning and growing. I believe this feeling applies to all writers who trust and believe in learning from each other.

 

Thanks to Artelle for organizing the meeting and signing a copy of her wonderful picture book, Star.

Nai Pride of the Year Award 2024 - Saturday, 3 August 2024

Huge applause to the organizing committee members, especially Sima Roshi, Founder President, and Cultural Vice-President Jenisha Gautam, for their tireless work in making the Nai Pride of the Year Award 2024 event a success at Bardali, Merrylands.

Congratulations to all six award recipients in various categories: Anil Phokhel, Dr. Manoj Kumar Singh, Rani Dixit, MONA Australia (Indra Thapa, President), Santosh, Takdir Adhikari, and Om Dhungel. The event was MC'd by Bal Mukunda and organized by NAI Academy Australia. The event was followed by a Teej celebration and performances.

Launch of Pictorial Children's Storybooks "डाँडाबारीको भूत (Phantom of the Terrace Farm) - Sunday, 3 August 2024

It was an immense pleasure to see that one of the children’s picture books I had been editing was launched at a program at the Army Officer's Club, Sundhara, Kathmandu, on Sunday, 3 August 2024. 

This book is part of the Picture Book Development on Endangered Species project, a collaboration between Greenhood and Kathalaya Nepal, aiming to create picture books that raise awareness and advocate for the preservation and protection of endangered animals and species. The pictorial children's storybooks "डाँडाबारीको भूत" and “Phantom of the Terrace Farm,” written by Kumar Paudel, illustrated by Neeti Shrestha, and edited by myself, Saurav Kiran Shrestha, were among the highlights.
I would like to thank Kathalaya (Rajeev ji and Suniti ji) for giving me the opportunity to be part of this project as an editor, which we believe will be meaningful in protecting endangered species in Nepal through literature.

A Project 2024 - Wednesday, 7 August 2024

I would like to thank and acknowledge Dr. Archana Thapa for facilitating an online session on women’s characterization in Nepali literature.

Dr. Thapa is an independent scholar, author, and founder of Akshar Creations Nepal Publishing. She writes in both English and Nepali, and her latest book is a story collection titled Kathaputala. She has edited more than half a dozen books and is now the Chairperson of Hands in Outreach, Sano Sansar, an organization that helps girls from marginalized communities access education.

This month I reflected on two key areas 1. Collective Growth Through Collaboration and 2. Culture and Environment Preservation Through Literature with following activities and participation. I introduced "Bishanu Ree,” a novel by Sydney-based Nepali author Pragya. I also had the opportunity to participate in the Western Sydney Writers of KidLit (WSWK) critique meeting, where we shared valuable feedback on picture book manuscripts. 
I also participated in the Nai Pride of the Year Award 2024 that recognized and celebrated the contributions of individuals within the Nepali community in Australia by bringing people together to celebrate their shared heritage and accomplishments.
On another note, I’m proud to have been part of the children’s picture book "डाँडाबारीको भूत (Phantom of the Terrace Farm)" which was released this month in Kathmandu. This book aims to raise awareness about the protection of endangered species in Nepal. Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Archana Thapa for facilitating an insightful online session on women’s characterization in Nepali literature.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 15

16 June - 15 July: Personal Journal 15

Celebrating the 211th Bhanu Jayanti

This year, the 211th Bhanu Jayanti became a special day for me. Several events were organized in Australia to commemorate and 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.

I was privileged to attend two events dedicated to Nepali literature and Bhanu Jayanti.

The first event was jointly organized by the International Nepali Literary Society, New South Wales Chapter, in collaboration with the Nepali Art, Culture, and Literature Foundation, and Tanahu Society Australia on Saturday, 15 June 2024, at Rato Ghar, Granville. The first part of the event focused on poem and ghazal recitation, while the second session included art and culture, with activities such as dance, singing, award distribution, and various other activities. Thanks to Prakash Poudel and Bhabana Parajuli ji for your cordial invitation and congratulations to all organizing members for making this event successful.

The second event I attended was organized by the Association of Bhutanese in Australia (ABA) Sydney on Saturday, 13 July 2024. At the event, Puspa Acharya ji, Nagendra Sharma ji, and I recited Ghazals. We have been practicing Ghazal writing in a small group with a few other members for the past couple of months, and this was the first time both Puspa ji and I recited Ghazals at such a wonderful program, where more than 15 poets and personalities recited their poems and discussed the importance of preserving and promoting the Nepali language.

I would like to thank President Devendra Gautam and the entire organizing committee of ABA Sydney for bringing discussions on Bhanubhakta's contributions to the Nepali language and literature, and for the recitation of Bhanubhakta's Ramayana. On this occasion, Ramesh Gautam was honored for his extraordinary contributions toward the Nepali language and the Bhutanese community in Norway.

I was aware of a third event, which was held in Queensland by the International Nepali Literature Society Queensland Chapter and the Nepalese Association of Queensland (NAQ) on 20 July 2024 in Brisbane. All these events were evidence of the growing scope and magnitude of Nepali languages, arts, literature, and culture in Australia.

Ghazal Catch-up - Sunday, 16 June 2024

We once again gathered in a small group at Choice Academic College, Parramatta, before the poet Gyanu Walker Poudyal left for Nepal. He wished to meet us and learn about our progress in our Ghazal writings. During the catch-up, we discussed our learning journey and recited our Ghazals written during the learning process. It was impressive to see our improvement after almost three months since our first Ghazal Writing Workshop in April 2024 at Max Webber Library. I would like to thank Gyanu sir for his mentorship and time, which really encouraged some of the passionate writers in Western Sydney.

WestWords Online Seminar - Sunday, 7 July 2024

I attended the 'WestWords Online Seminar - How to Run a Writing Workshop'. The workshop aimed to equip authors with the tools to host their own workshops. Thanks to Ally Burnham for running the workshop and sharing her experience, which helped us hone our skills and pitch workshops.

I look forward to running some creative workshops as discussed and learned during the seminar in the near future. I also advise providing an opportunity for aspiring authors to shadow some of the workshops organized by WestWords to build confidence and gain experience.

A Project 2024 - Wednesday, 10 July 2024

I would like to thank and acknowledge Mahesh Poudyal for accepting my invitation to facilitate an online session on the use of symbols in short story writing workshops. It was inspiring to see some participants have started to apply learning from the session in their writing. I am excited to see the final product of the project next year.

Meeting with Nawa Raj Khatiwada - Friday, 12 July 2024

On the cold afternoon, I met Nawa Raj Khatiwada, Rita Khatiwada, and Sanu Ghimire. We all gathered to attend WestWords' Open Mic Program at Parramatta. We shared brief introductions while waiting for warm Momo in the recently opened Nepali 8848 Restaurant. It was a pleasure to learn that Nawa Raj ji is a writer and thinker, having published several academic and thought-provoking articles in journals and online. His travelogue ‘Jholako Bar’ was published in 2019. My best wishes to him.

WestWords Academy Open Mic Program - Friday, 12 July 2024

Personally, this was a proud moment for me as I saw Sanu Ji, one of our Nepali writers, capture the attention of the English-speaking audience with her captivating short story "The Shades of Lipstick" recitation at the Open Mic Program.

There is a saying, "You wish, I will fulfill it." It seems our Australia-based Nepali writers' shared vision and effort have started to work. Thanks to everyone who is inspiring each other, working hard, and exploring outside their comfort zones to promote Nepali writers and literature in the Australian context.

J. Marahuyo successfully brought the program to life with her skillful emceeing. She was also a 2022 WestWords Academic and the recipient of the Living Stories Award 2024.

The 211th Bhanu Jayanti became a memorable celebration for me, marked by a series of special events in Australia to honor the Nepali first poet. I attended several events where various poets, including myself, recited our works, which showcased the growing influence of Nepali culture in Australia. Additionally, I participated in a Ghazal writing catch-up, an online seminar on running writing workshops, and a session on using symbols in short story writing. 

While reflecting on my continued engagement with diverse literary groups and communities, I have found the following positive and motivating outcomes: 

• Strengthened connections with my fellow Nepali writers and artists, fostering a sense of community.

• Increased my participation in cultural/literary events, which helped promote Nepali language and literature in Australia.

• Improved my Ghazal writing skills through practice and feedback from peers.

• Fostered a supportive environment for aspiring poets, encouraging collaboration and learning.

• Gained valuable insights into running writing workshops, equipping me with tools to host my own.

• Inspired me to consider organizing creative writing workshops in the future to share knowledge and skills with others.

• Learned effective techniques for incorporating symbols into my short stories, enhancing the depth and meaning of my writing.

• Observed participants applying these techniques, which validated the effectiveness of the workshop.

• Experienced the joy of seeing a fellow Nepali writer captivate an English-speaking audience, which was a proud moment for our community.

• Recognized the importance of supporting and promoting Nepali writers in diverse literary settings.

Overall, I believe my involvement in these activities has not only enriched my personal and professional growth as a writer but also contributed to the promotion and preservation of Nepali literature and culture in Australia.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 14

16 May - 15 June: Personal Journal 14

Welcome to the fourteenth edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Nepali literature and writers (AB) in line with my vision. I extend a warm invitation to join me on this journey and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Picture Book Workshop Session 1 - Saturday, 18 May 2024

As a trainer, I facilitated the first online session on Picture Book Writing for both emerging and established writers and illustrators in Nepal as part of the Picture Book Development on Endangered Species project. This is a collaboration between Greenhood and Kathalaya Nepal, aiming to create picture books that raise awareness and advocate for the preservation and protection of endangered animals and species.

The session was attended by Sajani Naubage, Prakash Poudel, Neeti Shrestha, Elisha Ghimire, Ashmita, Binita Buddhacharya, Kushal Shrestha, Krisha Tamrakar, Amit and Jenisha Suman. Special thanks to Rajeev Ji for providing this wonderful opportunity and bringing all the enthusiastic writers, illustrators, and environmentalists into the online room.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia - Friday, 19 May 2024

Continuing my initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers and their literature in Australia, this month I introduced "A New Dawn," a book by Sydney-based Nepali author Mamata Pant Mishra. I hope you will welcome it as warmly as you have welcomed my previous introductions. Thank you to The DMN News for providing space on your online platform. Please check the link below for the book introduction and remember to share the link on your FB or on social media.  

A New Dawn: Exploring Human Emotions, Relationships, and Second Chances - The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal

International Children’s Literature Conference - Saturday, 25 May 2024

I had the privilege to attend and speak at the second International Children's Literature Conference 2024, organized by the International Nepali Literary Society (INLS) Children's Committee. The conference was organized via Zoom, where over 30 children from countries such as Australia, Japan, Korea, the United States, Canada, Portugal, and Nepal showcased their literary works along with various cultural mantras, Vedic recitations, and other cultural and singing talents.

The speakers at the event included Rohini Sharma, Padam Bishwakarma, Shiva Lamichhane, Govardhan Puja, Sarvajna Wagle, Rajendra Shrestha, Bimala Niraula, Ritadevi Pradhan, Yashoda Adhikari, and Saurav Kiran Shrestha. The conference was held under the chairmanship of Balatara Literature Committee Coordinator Dr. Prakash Poudel. The event was jointly hosted in Nepali by Children's Committee member Arjun Sadaula from Japan, and children Reva Shah from Australia, and Sachin Chapagain and Abhas Aryal from America. Nepal Children's Literature Society President Pramod Pradhan served as the chief guest. The conference concluded with the issuance of a seven-point declaration. For details, please visit the link:

अनेसासको दोस्रो अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय बालसाहित्य सम्मेलन ७ बुँदे घोषणापत्र जारी गर्दै सम्पन्न – inlsdarpan.com

Ghazal Feedback Session - Thursday, 27 May 2024

I spent some time with Nagendar Sharma, who is an enthusiastic and emerging Ghazal writer. As a student of Ghazal writing myself, we discussed our pieces of writing and provided feedback on each other's Ghazals. We felt our friendship growing as we were learning and exchanging ideas together.

A Project - May 2024

I feel privileged and excited to see some of my actions and visions have been materializing with the support of a passionate group of writers, well-wishers, and WestWord. On Wednesday, 22 May 2024, we started a project with an introductory online session followed by a one-day workshop on Saturday, 1 June 2024, at WestWord Parramatta. I have been engaging with the group and prominent writers/speakers to organize and facilitate a series of sessions and workshops and plan the project. I am looking forward to seeing the substantive outcome of this project next year. Best wishes to all who are involved and contributing to this project.

I would like to acknowledge all the participants, speakers, resource persons, and trainers, including Dr. Sabitri Kakshapati, Om Dhungel, Jiva Nath Lamsal, Michael Campbell, and Saman Shad. 

Picture Book Feedback Session - Tuesday, 4 June 2024

I conducted an online feedback session with Neeti Shrestha, an aspiring graphic designer, illustrator, and emerging writer from Nepal. She has already published her illustrations in a few picture books. During the session, I provided critical feedback and suggestions on her project, where she will be both the author and illustrator of a picture book dealing with a sensitive subject. I hope our honest conversation will assist her in shaping a wonderful picture book and advancing her creative journey. Thanks to Rajeev Ji and Kathalaya for arranging this opportunity.

Meeting with Bharat Rai - Sunday, 9 June 2024

I met Bharat Rai at the Max Webber Library, Blacktown. He is an author, playwright, actor, and director. His literary articles have been published in several Nepali literary magazines in Nepal and Australia. During the meeting, he gave me his book "Suruaat" (a collection of short stories). I also shared my vision for promoting Nepali literature and writers in Australia.

We discussed about supporting each other in creative initiatives, exploring possibilities to organize regular meetings and sessions that provide opportunities for authors from diverse cultural backgrounds to come together and share their ideas and experiences. I also provided some information about the initiatives from Blacktown City Libraries that provide similar opportunities. We also thought about starting conversations with the libraries and other interested writers in the near future.

In conclusion, this month has been highly productive and inspiring, marked by meaningful engagements with fellow writers and literary enthusiasts. From facilitating workshops and conferences to providing critical feedback and discussing new projects, each activity has contributed to the collective goal of promoting Nepali literature and supporting emerging talents in Australia. The collaborations and discussions have not only enriched my personal vision but also strengthened the network of writers and literary advocates committed to preserving and advancing our cultural heritage. As I move forward, I am excited to see the outcomes of these initiatives and continue building a vibrant community of creative minds.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 13

 16 April- 15 May: Personal Journal 13

Welcome to the thirteenth edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Nepali literature and writers (AB) in line with my vision. I extend a warm invitation to join me on this journey and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Month of Ghazal

This month was predominated by sessions on Ghazal writing and exercises. Therefore, I have collated all the Ghazal related activities within this period under the heading "Month of Ghazal" to make it easy to read. It was satisfactory to see some development in our Ghazal writings, which will eventually reach an audience one day.

1. Ghazal Writing Workshop - Saturday, 27 April 2024 

If I am not mistaken, the first Ghazal Writing Workshop in the heart of Western Sydney at Max Weber Library, Blacktown, was organized. I believe this will kickstart the practice of Ghazal writing among Nepali poets in Western Sydney and inspire others. I would like to sincerely thank the prominent Nepali Ghazalist/poet Gyanu Walker Poudyal for facilitating the workshop. Active participation from all made this workshop interesting and engaging. As we aspired to continue this journey collectively, I look forward to seeing all participants start writing, publishing, or reciting Ghazals/poems in the near future. I believe all of us gained something from his experience, insights, and teachings. We were touched, inspired, and motivated. No doubt, this workshop will successfully promote Nepali literary activities in Western Sydney.

                    

The workshop was attended by Tripura Poudyal, Puspa Lal Acharya, Nanda Bhandari Nimesh, Komal Khatiwada, Nagendra Sharma, Sumitra Rajbhandari, Ratna Thapa, Jit Gopali Ji, Punu Gopali, Rona Gopali, and Saurav Kiran. I am grateful to Gyanu Walker, Puspa Ji, and Blacktown Library for supporting me morally and physically in organizing this successful workshop. 2. Catch Up with Gyanu Walker Poudyal - Saturday, 4 May 2024

Puspa Ji and I visited Gyanu Walker Poudyal at his home in Merrylands to get some feedback on our draft Ghazals. His guidance on my Ghazal writing journey was significant for me. We had tea together and discussed Ghazal. As we left his home, we felt like we had learned something valuable. For me, his presence in Sydney was a blessing.            

                        

3. Ghazal Writing Session - Saturday, 11 May 2024

Following the first Ghazal Writing Workshop, I organized a second workshop with Sydney-based well-known Nepali Ghazalist Jitendra Malla.

It was rainy outside, but six enthusiastic brothers braved the gloomy weather and gathered at my home for the Session led by Jitendra Malla. The engaging session proved helpful in understanding the basic elements of Ghazal as we learned from each other's work, identifying areas for improvement. It inspired us to continue practicing our writing. Our appreciation goes to Jitendra Ji for making time available and sharing his knowledge and skills with us: Puspa Lal Acharya, Nanda Bhandari Nimesh, Komal Khatiwada, Nagendra Sharma, and Saurav Kiran.

4. Ghazal Feedback Session - Thursday, 16 May 2024

After two Ghazal sessions by Gyanu Walker Poudyal and Jitendra Malla, we decided to organize an online Ghazal Feedback Session via Messenger as needed. On 16 May, Komal Ji and Nagendra Ji shared their Ghazals, and others provided constructive feedback. During the process, we honed our skills on some elements of Ghazal writing, like understanding Matala, Kafiya, and fixing some Kafiya dosh. The online session was attended by Nanda, Sumitra, Komal, Jit Ji, Nagendra, and Saurav.

Reunion of Poets and Writers at Austral - Sunday, 28 April 2024

I had the pleasure of witnessing a soulful reunion of poets and writers after periods of social isolation due to the pandemic. The gathering took place at Austral, at the residence of the well-known poet Maheshwar Sharma, based in Sydney.

The informal gathering transformed into a delightful poetic symposium, where enthusiastic poets recited their Ghazals and poems. Personally, this gathering was inspiring and recharging. At the same time, the assurance from Jitendra Malla and Surendra Dawadi to support my literary initiatives motivated me even further.

Prominent Nepali poets and writers like Gyanu Walker Poudyal, Gargi Sharma, Jitendra Malla, Surendra Dawadi, Sanu Prem Jyotsana, Pragya Paneru, Moon Miracle, Tripura Poudel, Tulasa Pande, Shweta Mainali, Bhabana Parajuli, Buddhisagar Dawadi, Thakur Prasad Panth, Asmit C. Regmi, and other poets, presented their mesmerizing and captivating Ghazals, poems, and free verses. I would like to thank Sonam Pandey Sharma for her warm hospitality, which made the gathering feel warm and homely. WWAG (WestWords Alumni Group) 2024 May Session - Sunday, 5 May 2024

The WWAG May Session was successfully organized and attended by Artelle Lenthall, Christine Johnson, and Saurav Shrestha. I would like to thank WestWords and my alumni colleagues for trusting me in my role as the group facilitator. During the session, we all shared our works in progress.

In my turn, I proudly shared my engagement with Australia-based Nepali writers and some of its outcomes. I also shared progress about Nepali Ghazal/poetry and our initiatives for Ghazal workshops/sessions. Additionally, I shared my work on the picture book "My Funniest Mummy" and received group feedback on it. Thanks to Artelle and Christine for your genuine and honest feedback, which I will consider in my work. Featured in Creator and Creation - Monday, 13 May 2024

I felt proud to be featured in the 9th edition of the Creator and Creation series, coordinated by Ramesh Chandra Ghimire and designed by Lokendra Shakya. The aim of the series is to promote and showcase creators/writers in the digital space.

This month has been a significant journey in promoting and nurturing Nepali literature, particularly Ghazal writing. I'm pleased with the progress in our Ghazal writings, which will eventually be shared with an audience. The workshops, feedback sessions, and gatherings have been both inspiring and educational, bringing our community closer together. I am grateful for the support and participation of everyone involved. I look forward to continuing this literary journey with all of you. Your contributions and insights are invaluable as we strive to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.