Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 28

16 August – 15 September 2025 | Personal Journal 28

Welcome to the 28th edition of my monthly journal, dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers. This initiative aligned with my vision of fostering a vibrant and connected literary community. I warmly invited everyone to join me on this journey and share their invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and endeavors.

An Anthology of Australian Multilingual Poetry Meeting – Wednesday 3 September 2025

I attended a meeting on the Anthology of Australian Multilingual Poetry. This gathering of poets celebrated cultural and linguistic diversity and highlighted the importance of bringing together voices from different traditions and languages.

The project was initiated by the Hon. Shaoquett Moselmane and was managed by internationally renowned poet Professor Mark Tredinnick. Its objective was to compile selected poems into a multilingual poetry collection. Such an anthology helped preserve and showcase the richness of Australian poetry across cultures.

During the meeting, Richa Gautam, representing the Nepali community, recited her poem in English among other poets from diverse cultures. The meeting was held in Rockdale. A heartfelt thanks went to Sanu Ghimire for her participation and support in promoting Nepali literature within Australia’s multicultural community.

Nepali Books for Library
I received two copies of Srijanshil Kishor Pahadi, a book edited by Dr. Shekhar Kumar Shrestha that highlighted Kishor Pahadi’s personality and various aspects of his creative writing. These books were sent by the author himself from Melbourne, who had visited Australia a few weeks earlier.

Kishor Pahadi was not a new name to me, as he was a renowned short story writer who had won the Sajha Puraskar for his work Bishudai. I remembered reading his stories long ago in magazines like Madhupark and Garima while growing up. Unfortunately, I never had the chance to meet him in Nepal, even though we both lived in Kathmandu. But, thanks to social media, I reached out to him via Messenger. We had a very warm conversation.
This meeting and his books pushed me to organize a Book Handover/Donation event again this year. So, I requested Australia-based writers/authors to send their books to me for the donation that I planned for the Blacktown Library in October/November.

Nava Durga Literary Program 2025 Update
The Women’s Creative Group is organizing a special cultural presentation featuring poetry recitations on the theme of the different dimensions of Nava Durga on the occasion of Bijaya Dashami on Saturday 20 September 2025 at SydWest Multicultural Services, Blacktown.

Some updates of the program over the month were:

Nine Nepali Women Poets who would tributes nine Durga (goddess) were finalized. Their names were as follows:

1. Mahata Ghimire Chapagain tributed Devi Shailaputri
2. Bhawana Parajuli tributed Devi Bramhacharini
3. Wreecha Gautam tributed Devi Chandraghanta
4. Mamata Mishra tributed Devi Kushmanda
5. Sweta Mainali tributed Devi Skandhamata
6. Sudhira Shah tributed Devi Katyayani
7. Pratigya Adhikari tributed Devi Kalratri
8. Pragya Paneru tributed Devi Mahagauri
9. Sanu Ghimire tributed Devi Sidhdidatri

Their poems were sent to the Feedback Committee, which included Prabha Bhattari, Surendra Dawadi, and Saurav Shrestha. Committee members had already provided their feedback. Currently all selected poets are improvising their poems to maintain the highest standard for performance on the day.

On Friday 5 September, an online feedback session was organized, attended by Poet Prabha Bhattari. The session ran for 2 hours where every participating poet recited their poem in the group and received live and constructive feedback.
The pre-planned program was slightly impacted by the Gen Z protest and unrest that happened in Nepal on 8–10 September, where more than 72 people lost their lives. The organizing group decided to carry the event as scheduled with the notion of transforming the pain into power and paying tribute to all the young martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the noble cause.

Memorable Time with Authors and Friends from Melbourne – Sunday 7 September 2025
I had a refreshing time in Parramatta with my author friends Niru Tripathi, Prem Raj Upreti, Sanu Ghimire, Pragya Paneru, and. Niru and Prem were from Melbourne and came to Sydney to attend the NRNA Australia Excellence Award 2025 on Saturday 6 September 2025.

Both of them were members of the NRNA Australia Award Committee 2025 along with other members. I congratulated both Niru Tripathi (National Secretary) and Prem Raj Upreti (Vic-Member) for playing a vital role and contributing to the committee. My hearty congratulations also went to Laxman Sanyal, who was honoured with the NRNA Australia Excellence Award 2025 in Language and Literature. Surely, these achievements inspired many of us.

Call for Submissions: Sharada Monthly Australia Special Issue Update

After having a conversation with Editor Bimal Bhaukaji two months ago, about publishing a special issue Sharada Monthly (Nepali literary magazine) focusing only Australia-based Nepali writers, and as the Coordinator for Australia, I have already collected 46 articles including poems, ghazals, memories, stories, and essays.

The Australia special edition of Sharada Monthly was scheduled for Kartik 2082 BS (October edition). Here I expressed my thanks to all the Australia-based Nepali-origin writers for their contribution. It was really encouraging.

Feedback Sessions – August 2025

As usual, this month too, I conducted several one-on-one feedback sessions with writers, reviewing poems and children’s chapter books. It was always a pleasure to engage with both emerging and established voices and contribute—however modestly—to their creative journey and growth.

This month too, I actively engaged in diverse literary and cultural activities that strengthened connections within the Australia-based Nepali community. From attending the Anthology of Australian Multilingual Poetry meeting in Rockdale to receiving books for library donation, supporting the upcoming Nava Durga Literary Program, and sharing memorable moments with fellow authors, the month was filled with creativity and collaboration. I also facilitated feedback sessions for writers, contributed to the Sharada Monthly Australia Special Issue and Nava Durga Literary Program. 

Reflecting on these experiences, I felt grateful for the growing presence of Nepali literature in Australia’s multicultural landscape and encouraged by the collective efforts that continue to preserve and promote our heritage while fostering meaningful exchanges with wider communities.

Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 27

16 July – 15 August 2025 | Personal Journal 27

Welcome to the 27th 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.

Nava Durga Literary Program – EOI Call-out | Thursday, 17 July 2025

The Women’s Creative Group is organizing a special cultural presentation featuring poetry recitations on the theme of the various dimensions of Nava Durga on the occasion of Bijaya Dashami.

Nepali-origin women living in Australia are invited to submit original poems based on this theme. From the submissions, nine outstanding poems will be selected for recitation at a special program in Sydney on 21 September 2025. The program is led by Sanu Ghimire and Sudhira Shah.

 The submitted poems will be reviewed and finalized by a selection committee consisting of Jaleshowri Shrestha (Chairperson, Gunjan), Surendra Dawadi, and Saurav Shrestha.

The event aims to showcase the literary and cultural talents of Nepali women in Australia while celebrating the spirit of Bijaya Dashami.

Living Stories: Only I Can Say Publication Showcase | Saturday, 19 July 2025

I had the privilege of attending the Living Stories Western Sydney Writing Prize – Only I Can Say celebration at the WestWords Centre for Writing in Parramatta. The event brought together winning and highly commended writers, offering a warm and vibrant space to recognise their achievements. Copies of the newly published anthology were available, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement as writers, families, and supporters gathered to celebrate.

                           

The Open Mic Session gave writers the opportunity to read their freshly published pieces aloud—a moving and inspiring experience. I felt especially proud when Mumal’s poem, recognised as a Highly Commended entry from the Blacktown LGA, was acknowledged and celebrated.

It was a wonderful afternoon that not only showcased the depth of talent in Western Sydney but also reminded me of the power of storytelling in connecting our diverse communities.

Shabdamala Teachers’ Interaction, Appreciation, and Development Program | Sunday, 20 July 2025
I would like to sincerely thank Shabdamala Nepali Language School and President Bishnu Ghimire ji for inviting me to the Teachers’ Interaction, Appreciation, and Development Program.

I had the opportunity not only to share my experiences but also to learn from the inspiring teachers dedicated to promoting the Nepali language and culture among the new generation. This program also gave me a valuable chance to receive constructive feedback on the curriculum and textbook I have been developing since last year for school students.

It was heartening to see so many responsible teachers and parents come together to discuss how best to pass on the Nepali language and culture to the next generation in Australia. Your dedication, commitment, knowledge, and skills are truly admirable in preserving and nurturing our heritage for second-generation children in NSW.

Call for Submissions: Sharada Monthly Australia Special Issue | Wednesday, 30 July 2025
In last month’s post, I mentioned my conversation with Editor Bimal Bhaukaji about publishing a special Australia-focused issue of the Nepali literary magazine Sharada Monthly.

As the Coordinator for Australia, I warmly invite writers, poets, and literary contributors to submit their work for the upcoming Australia Special Issue of Sharada Monthly (Kartik 2082 edition). Submissions may include memoirs, essays, critiques, reviews, or short stories.
Submission Guidelines:

• Written in Nepali

• No longer than 2,000 words

• Original (unpublished elsewhere)

• Relevant to the current context

• Include full name, current address, affiliation, and a digital photograph

• Deadline: 3 September 2025

• Email: sauravgshrestha@gmail.com

Mamata Mishra PAHICHAN Launch Event | Saturday, 2 August 2025

The launch of Mamata Mishra’s book PAHICHAN was held at Max Webber Library, Blacktown. The program began with a poetry recitation by Richa Bhattarai, followed by congratulatory messages, commentary, and speeches from Dhruba Hari Adhikari, Pragya Paneru, Surendra Dawadi, Ashwini Koirala (recorded), and Om Dhungel.

A highlight of the event was an interactive session between Mamata Mishra and Sanu Ghimire, where attendees gained personal insights into the author’s journey and the creation of PAHICHAN.

The event concluded with “Signature Moments,” where guests had the opportunity to engage directly with the author during book signings. It was also a valuable opportunity for informal conversations and networking among more than 40 attendees.

The program was emceed by Pratigya Adhikari. I felt privileged to be part of the organizing team and extend heartfelt congratulations to Mamata on the successful launch of her second novel.

Meeting with Author Jenisha Manandhar | Saturday, 9 August 2025

It was a pleasure meeting Sydney-based Nepali writer Jenisha Manandhar at Max Webber Library. Surprisingly, many in our community remain unaware of her work, even though she has already published four books in English: Lost Letters, Moving Forward, Lumanti’s Memory, and Rajmati (Reimagined).

Her latest book, Rajmati, was launched on Sunday, 3 August at Writing NSW in Lilyfield, recreating the iconic Newa character. Hearty congratulations to Jenisha on this remarkable contribution to Nepali literature—it is a delight to discover such outstanding talent within Sydney’s Nepali community.

During our conversation, we explored ways to support each other in creative writing and publishing, and agreed to take this forward into concrete action. I look forward to continuing this journey with her and Shayashkar Dangol. Special thanks to Sanu Ghimire ji for arranging this meaningful meeting.

Feedback Sessions – July 2025
As usual, this month too, I conducted several one-on-one feedback sessions with writers, reviewing poems and children’s chapter books. It’s always a pleasure to engage with both emerging and established voices and contribute—however modestly—to their creative journey and growth.

Over the past month, I was privileged to witness and contribute to several inspiring literary and cultural initiatives within the Australia-based Nepali community. From the Nava Durga poetry call-out and the Shabdamala teachers’ program to the Sharada Monthly special issue announcement, these events reminded me of our shared responsibility to nurture language, literature, and cultural identity across generations. 
    

Equally enriching were the literary showcases and personal encounters that highlighted individual talent and community pride: the Living Stories publication event in Western Sydney demonstrated the power of storytelling to connect diverse communities, while Mamata Mishra’s PAHICHAN launch and my meeting with Jenisha Manandhar reinforced the importance of supporting and celebrating Nepali writers in Australia.

Each program offered lessons in collaboration, resilience, and cultural pride, collectively strengthening the vision of building a vibrant Nepali literary presence in Australia. Thank you all.

Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 26

16 June - 15 July 2025 | Personal Journal 26
Welcome to the 26th 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 endeavors.

                                        

Haiku Workshop – Sunday, 29 June 2025

This is my first contemporary English haiku, penned during the Haiku Workshop held at Stanhope Gardens Library. The workshop was facilitated by Leanne Mumford (President, Australian Haiku Society) and Subhashini Jayatilake.

Sincere thanks to the Sri Lankan Australian Women’s Network, Amoda Design, and Blacktown City Council for hosting this inspiring event.

Interaction with Bimal Bhaukajee – Tuesday, 1 July 2025
Had a wonderful interaction with Bimal Bhaukaji, Editor of Sharada monthly magazine—one of the most renowned and historic Nepali literary publications, which was revived a decade ago.

                            

We discussed potential collaborations to feature creative works by writers of Nepali origin living in Australia. It was exciting to learn that Sharada has already published special editions highlighting Nepali writers who lives in other countries, such as the Canadian, UK, and US editions.

Following this model, I proposed an Australian edition. I look forward to seeing this idea materialize and hope we, as writers from Australia, will soon be able to hold a physical copy of Sharada: Australia Edition in our hands.

Poetry Festival 2025 – Saturday, 12 July 2025
The International Nepali Literary Society (INLS), New South Wales Chapter successfully organized the 112th Bhanu Jayanti on Saturday, July 12, at Prisha Event, Blacktown, Sydney, under the banner of "INLS Poetry Festival 2025."

Participants included: Mahendra Poudel, Sanu Ghimire, Nisprabh Saji, Jitendra Malla, Maheshwar Sharma, Saurav Kiran Shrestha, Pragya Paneru, Surendra Dawadi, Prakash Panthi, Richa Gautam, Janaki Poudel, Santosh Sharma, Dr. Ganesh KC, Suman Thapa ‘Sangam’, Muktiram Pokhrel, Chaturbhuj Kharel, Bhabana Parajuli, Jenisha Gautam, Bishnu Ghimire, Aayam Ghimire, Dr. Raju Manandhar, Prabin Tandon, Ram Koirala, Rahul Aryal, Netra Prasad Poudel, Santosh Rijal, Jeev Raj Ghimire, Tripura Poudel, among other prominent creators.

                    

Special guests included senior ghazal poet Gyanu Walkar Poudyal and approximately three dozen poets, who all contributed to the festival with their poetry recitations.

During the event, Ram Koirala, advisor of the organization, was honored with the INLS Annual Award for his ongoing literary contributions and publications. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to President Prakash Paudel for successfully leading the event and to Bhabana Parajuli for her wonderful role as the Master of Ceremonies.

Literary Program by ABA Sydney – Sunday, 13 July 2025
I attended another memorable event at the Kingswood Neighbourhood Centre celebrating the 212th Bhanu Jayanti, organized by the Association of Bhutanese in Australia – Sydney.

The celebration came alive with moving poetry and ghazal recitations, alongside vibrant performances by more than 15 participants. It was a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Nepali poet Bhanubhakta Acharya and his invaluable contributions to Nepali language and literature.

Update: Curriculum and Textbook Development – June 2025
During this reporting period, for Shabdamala Nepali Language School I had completed the draft versions of My Nepali Lesson – Level 3 (Term 3) and Level 4 (Term 3). They are now in the editing and illustration phase.

Feedback Sessions – June 2025
This month, I conducted several one-on-one feedback sessions with writers, reviewing poems and children’s chapter books. It’s always a pleasure to engage with both emerging and established voices and contribute—however modestly—to their creative journey and growth.

Throughout this reporting month in 2025, I actively engaged in literary and cultural activities—conducting feedback sessions, developing textbooks, attending poetry events, and proposing an Australian edition of Sharada magazine. These experiences enriched my creative journey, strengthened community connections, and underscored the power of collaboration in promoting Nepali literature—not just in Nepal or Australia, but across the globe.

Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 25

16 May - 15 June 2025 | Personal Journal 25

Welcome to the 25th 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 endeavor.

Children’s Creative Work Published in Nepali New Year 2082 Calendar – May 2025

As reported in an earlier blog, a special event titled “Children’s Literature and Kabita (Poem) Program” was organized by the International Nepali Literary Society (INLS), New South Wales Chapter, in March via Zoom. During the event, children proudly recited their original poems and writings. I am delighted to share that these creative works, along with the children's photographs, have now been published in the Nepali New Year 2082 calendar

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This initiative has brought immense joy and pride to parents, many of whom expressed how meaningful it was to see their children’s talents recognized and celebrated in such a way.

I extend heartfelt gratitude to all the children and parents involved in this wonderful effort. Special thanks to those who played a key role in the publication of the calendar, including Children’s Committee Advisors Prakash Paudel, Bishnu Ghimire, Sudip Shrestha, Binay Sharma and Suren Upreti. 

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia Through Book Introductions – Tuesday, 3 June 2025

As part of my ongoing initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers in Australia, this month I introduced a debut novella Timro Ma by Samu Upreti, a Melbourne-based Nepali writer. The novella is now also available in English under the title I Am Yours, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Thank you to Online Khabar English and its team for providing a platform to highlight Australian-based Nepali literature. Special thanks to Janardan Baral and Prasun Sangraula for your support.

I am yours: Revisiting teenage love and longing - OnlineKhabar English News

Global Poetry Competition on “Sagarmatha and the Himalayan Region Conservation” – Saturday, 7 June 2025
It was a pleasure to attend the global poetry competition titled “Sagarmatha and the Conservation of the Himalayan Region,” organized by the International Nepali Literary Society (INLS) – New South Wales Chapter in collaboration with the INLS Central Committee on 7 June 2025. The event was held via Zoom to mark International Sagarmatha Day also known as International Everest Day, is celebrated on May 29th each year to commemorate the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in Nepal. This day honors the historic achievement of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary, who reached the summit of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. 

The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from poets around the world, including representatives from Australia: Ram Prasad Koirala, Jenisha Gautam, Aayan, Rajan Adhikari, Mamta Tiwari, Santosh Lamsal, and Bishwa Mishra. Poets from Qatar, UAE, US, South Korea, Germany, and other countries also took part. The event was hosted by Prakash Paudel.

A total of 35 poets submitted their poems, and 31 poets recited their creations live during the program. Heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all participating poets for their invaluable contributions. Congratulations to the winners of the poetry competition Rajesh Sapkota (Norway), Nirjala Lamsal (Nuwakot, Nepal), and Prajwal Adhikari (Lamjung, Nepal).
Special thanks also go to the esteemed judges, special guest Mr. Pratik Dhakal, and the entire INLS family for their support and collaboration in making this global literary celebration a success.

Update: Curriculum and Textbook Development – June 2025
As previously shared, I have been actively involved in curriculum and textbook development for Shabdamala Nepali Language School. During this reporting period, a draft copy of My Nepali Lesson – Level 3 (Term 3) was completed, and work is now underway on Level 4 (Term 3).

Feedback Sessions - June 2025
This month, I also conducted several one-on-one feedback sessions with writers, reviewing their poems and editing a children’s chapter book. It’s always a pleasure to engage deeply with both emerging and established voices and contribute, in small but meaningful ways, to their creative growth.

The month was spent meaningfully as I participated in various events, curriculum development, book review, and writer feedback sessions that promoted Nepali literature and language in Australia. Thank you to the International Nepali Literary Society (INLS) – New South Wales Chapter for actively organizing events showcasing children's creativity and global poetry. These initiatives reflect a growing cultural presence and a strong commitment to nurturing creative talent within the Nepali-speaking community.