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.

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.