16 February- 15 March: Personal Journal 11
Welcome to the eleventh 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, contributing your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.
Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia - Friday, 16 February 2024
Continuing my efforts to spotlight Nepali heritage writers and their works in Australia, this month I introduced the book 'Key to Happiness' by Acharya Rajan Sharma, translated by Mahesh Paudyal Sharma. Acharya Rajan, a multi-talented Nepali author and yoga teacher based in Sydney, has penned this book with the aspiration of demonstrating the attainability of happiness. Originally titled 'Sukhasutra' in Nepali, please follow the link below for a brief introduction to the book on Nepal Live Today page:
Bishnu Re- Book Launch- Saturday, 25 Feb 2024
Congratulations to Pragya, whose book was launched on 25th February at Max Weber’s Library in Blacktown, graced by passionate writers and authors from Blacktown and other parts of Sydney, including Maheshwar Sharma, Mamata Tiwari, Jitendar Malla, Mamata Mishra, Nimesh Bhandar, Padam Kafle, Bhabana Parajuli, Shweta Mainali, Saurav Kiran Shrestha, Suman Pandey and Mahendra Lamsal, Sujit Sigdel. A special note of gratitude goes to Sanu Ghimire, whose efforts were instrumental in making this event a success.
Her conversation with author Pragya Paneru was enriching, followed by insightful critical analysis from Surendra Dawadi and heartfelt wishes from Gargi Sharma, Gyanuwakar Poudel, and Om Dhungel. Partigya Adhikari did a wonderful job as the MC. The book launch was not just an event but a joyous celebration, igniting a wave of inspirational Nepali language literary activities in the heart of Western Sydney, Blacktown. I also had the privilege of showcasing the Nepali section in the library. Thanks to Blacktown City Library for providing space and supporting the event.
Multicultural Authors Workshop- Saturday, 2 March 2024:
I had the pleasure of meeting authors and aspiring writers from diverse cultures at the Multicultural Authors Workshop at Max Webber Library. Special thanks to Abbas Razza Alvi and Saman Shad for sharing their personal journeys as writers and published authors. I extend my gratitude to Michael and Ally from WestWord for their excellent session design and delivery.
I would also like to acknowledge Joelmon Zungar, Librarian of Multicultural Services, for his ongoing assistance and engagement with multicultural communities in Blacktown. I look forward to similar workshops and training sessions run by the Blacktown City Library to enhance the capacity of local writers and authors.
Book Donation, Thursday 7 March 2024
A total of 23 books written by various Nepali authors were donated to the Max Weber Library in Blacktown in the presence of President Prakash Paudel, International Nepali Literary Society, Pragya, Saurav K Shrestha, and other community members. Library Manager Joy Burke kindly received the books alongside Joelmon Zungar, Librarian of Multicultural Services.
The library’s Community Language Collection/Section offers materials in 105 different languages, including Nepalese. I express my gratitude to Sudan Regmi and Bijay Pokharel for their book donations. I would also like to acknowledge Krishna Niraula, the Past President of the Blacktown Nepalese Community-Australia (BNC-Australia established in 2016), for his significant role in setting up the Nepalese section in the library, which includes Nepalese books and DVDs/movies.
The list of donated books includes:
1. A Hut of Dalit and Other Short Stories, Kedar Pokharel, 2018
2. A New Dawn, Mamata Pant Mishra, 2018
3. Aamako Dhudko Vara, Ravi Kiran Nirjeeb, 2015
4. Aatmadan, Ravi Kiran Nirjeeb, 2011
5. Adbhut Mrityu, Khem Upadhaya, 2018
6. Ama, Kedar Pokharel 2015
7. Bato Bhatkepachhi, Kedar Pokharel 2019
8. Bhawharukaa Lahar, Prabin Tandan, 2013 AD
9. Bishanu Ree, Pragy Paneru, 2023
10. Chepte Bhangalo, Kedar Pokharel, 2018
11. Daadama Joon Chha, Pradeep Chapagain, 2011 AD
12. Dalit of Jhupadi, Kedar Pokharel, 2018
13. Gurukulko Bidhroha, Umesh Upadhaya, 2020
14. Kharayoko Sing, Dhruva Ghimire, 2019
15. Kheti Garaun, Dhruva Ghimire, Parichaya Publication 2020
16. Mankaa PhoolThunga, Bhawana Parajuli Bastakoti, 2022 AD
17. Monaa, Bishwa Bandhu Karki 2014 AD
18. Phoolharuko Yudhha, Pradeep Chapagain, 2014
19. Prakriti, Moti Shova, Shrestha, 2021
20. PremBasti, Shweta Mainali, Gorkha Publications, 2018 AD
21. Sallipir, Nayan Raj Pandey, 2016
22. Samjhanako Diary, Moti Shova Shrestha, 2021
23. Yog Darshan Ra Prachin Chikitsa, Acharya Rajan Sharma, 2022
"Contemporary Nepali Women's Writers: Status and Prospects" by Sanu Ghimire, 14 March:
Australia-based Nepali writer Sanu Ghimire, as a co-author with litterateur Dr. Geeta Tripathi, presented a paper on "Contemporary Nepali Women's Writers: Status and Prospects" in an online program. The program was honored by the presence of Australian Ambassador for Nepal, Her Excellency Felicity Volk.
The successful program was coordinated by Dr. Nabaraj Khatiwada and attended by authors/writers from both Nepal and Australia. The presentation and discussion centered around the history of women's writing in Nepal and Australia, challenges, and opportunities in a bilateral context. Ambassador Felicity, herself an author of two books, inspired women writers to contribute in a way that benefits both Nepali and Australian literature. Her experience and understanding of cultural context motivated the participants to collaborate on future projects. Neeru Tripathi, Pragya Paneru, and Sanu Ghimire represented Australia-based Nepali women writers in the program.
Though I couldn’t attend the event, I felt privileged to contribute some of my creative thoughts and suggestions during the preparation of the presentation. My best wishes to Sanu Ji in promoting Nepali women writers in Australia.
In this eleventh edition of my monthly journal, I've continued my efforts to promote Nepali literature and writers in Australia. Highlights include showcasing the book 'Key to Happiness' by Acharya Rajan Sharma, facilitating the book launch of Pragya's work, participating in a Multicultural Authors Workshop, and donating Nepali books to the Max Weber Library in Blacktown. As I reflect, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and satisfaction. I believe each endeavor has contributed to the enrichment of Nepali literary culture in Australia and fostered connections within the community.
Moving forward, I am eager to continue this journey of promoting Nepali literature, nurturing local talent, and fostering cross-cultural dialogue. Together, we can amplify the voices of Nepali writers and celebrate the richness of our literary heritage.
