16 June 2026 – 15 July 2026 | Personal Journal 36
I welcomed readers to the 36th edition of my monthly journal, which highlighted my activities, reflections, and literary engagements. As many of you knew, this journal was dedicated to showcasing and promoting Australia-based Nepali literature and writers. This initiative reflected my vision of fostering a vibrant, connected, and collaborative literary community. I invited everyone to join me on this journey and to share valuable insights that enriched our collective learning and creative endeavours.
Catch-up with Anup Bhandari – Friday, 26 June 2026
I had the pleasure of meeting Anup Bhandari ji, who had recently published his debut novel, The Bhatte Movement.
During our brief conversation, he explained that the book was not just a fictional novel. Although it was inspired by real experiences, it also raised an important question for all Nepalis, especially the brightest minds of Nepal who quietly left the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
For decades, Nepal witnessed its young people pursuing their dreams across the world, from Sydney to many other countries, where they built careers, families, and futures far from home.
But what happened to the country they left behind?
Through this novel, Anup reflected the story of a generation torn between ambition and belonging, success and sacrifice, distance and duty. More importantly, he raised a profound question: Was it time to return?
The Bhatte Movement explored themes of brotherhood, migration, identity, and the desire to rebuild Nepal. As Anup beautifully expressed, "This is not just about those who left. It is about what they still carry—and what they may still build."
I congratulated him on this debut novel. It was also encouraging to learn that he had already started working on another book.
I hoped there would soon be an opportunity to bring readers together to discuss the novel, its message, and the important questions it raised about Nepal and the Nepalis living around the world.
213th Bhanu Jayanti Celebration – Saturday, 27 June 2026
I felt truly honoured and grateful to receive the Bhanu Award in the Creation and Literature Category at the 213th Bhanu Jayanti celebration organised by the Nepali Art, Culture and Literature Foundation (NKSSP Australia) at Auburn Town Hall.
This recognition inspired me to continue contributing to the preservation and promotion of the Nepali language and literature. I also congratulated my fellow award recipient, Sanjiv Basnet, who received the award in the Art and Culture category.
I also extended my heartfelt congratulations to all the talented artists, especially the emerging performers, cultural artists, and accomplished poets whose inspiring presentations made the celebration truly memorable.
The programme also included addresses by GSNMC President Bishnu Hamal, FeNCAA President Dr Madhu Pudasaini, NKSSP President Kalyani Bartaula, and other distinguished guests.
Book Donation to Max Webber Library – Tuesday, 30 June 2026
Three books were donated to Max Webber Library, Blacktown, and were formally handed over to Library Services Manager Joy Bourke.
The first book was Yug Yatra by Padam Kafley, who personally presented his book. It had been launched at the same library on 13 June 2026.
Catch-up with Ganesh Ghimire – Tuesday, 7 July 2026
I enjoyed a warm catch-up with Ganesh Ghimire from Perth at a gathering organised by Sanu Ghimire ji at her home. It was a wonderful opportunity to renew our friendship.
We also discussed the rapidly increasing use of artificial intelligence across creative fields, including songwriting and music production. My best wishes went to Jitendra Malla, who had been actively working in this area.
I appreciated the warm hospitality and sincerely thanked Sanu ji for her kind invitation.
INLS Canberra – Teej Special Literary Evening
Under the theme "शब्दमा शक्ति, सिर्जनामा स्वतन्त्रता", the International Nepali Literature Society (INLS) Canberra announced a Teej Special Poetry Recitation Evening to be held on Saturday, 22 August 2026.
Around fifteen women poets from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and other Australian states are expected to participate. It is a privilege for me to support the event by contributing to its planning and providing feedback on the poetry presentations.
I extended my best wishes to all participating poets and attendees for a successful programme and wished everyone a Happy Teej 2026.
Feel-Good and Proud Moments for us
I felt proud and delighted when I learned that Mahabi Mika and Badalmuni Baglung had received the SahityaPost Nava Ratna Award 2082 in Nepal in the fiction and non-fiction categories respectively.
Both books were written by Australia-based Nepali authors, and I felt fortunate to have witnessed their literary milestones in Sydney. Mahabi Mika was celebrated during a book interaction programme on 28 March 2026, while Badalmuni Baglung was launched on 24 May 2026.
I sincerely thanked SahityaPost for recognising Australia-based Nepali writers and encouraging them to continue contributing to Nepali literature at an even higher level.
My heartfelt congratulations went to Prakash Panthi, author of Mahabi Mika, and Bhim Neupane, author of Badalmuni Baglung. Their achievements were a source of pride for the entire Australia-based Nepali literary community.
Appreciation to everyone who contributed through their creativity, support, and dedication. Together, we continued to strengthen Australian-Nepali literature, preserve language and culture to contribute to Australian diversity. I looked forward to the journey ahead with renewed optimism and commitment.




























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