Nepali Writers and Literature in Australia – My Vision, Plan, and Action: Journal 35

16 May 2026 – 15 June 2026 | Personal Journal 35

I welcomed readers to the 35th edition of my monthly journal, which highlighted activities, reflections, and literary engagements. As many of you know, 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 warmly invited everyone to join me on this journey and share valuable insights that enriched our collective learning and creative endeavours.

Book Talk and Interaction on Badalmuni Baglung – Sunday, 24 May 2026

It was a pleasure to witness the successful Book Talk on Badalmuni Baglung, held at Rockdale, Sydney, featuring the writing of Mr. Bhim Neupane from Melbourne. This inspiring memoir was recently selected for the longlist of the Sahityapost Non-Fiction Award 2082 (साहित्यपोस्ट गैरआख्यान पुरस्कार २०८२).

It was also a pleasure to assist him to make this event more meaningful in Sydney, along with Ms. Bhabana Parajuli, President of the International Nepali Literary Society (INLS), NSW. Special thanks went to Dr. Raju Manandhar, Vice President of INLS, for his media coverage and continuous support. The event was wonderfully hosted by Rishi Acharya, who also facilitated the discussion on the debut book Badalmuni Baglung.

Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes went to Mr. Bhim Neupane for his future literary achievements.

Ful Fulyo Kasari Song Premiere – Saturday, 6 June 2026
The premiere of the song Ful Fulyo Kasari was held at Grand Palace, Auburn, and was presented by Jenisha Entertainment. The song was written and composed by Sydney-based versatile artist Jenisha Gautam and was sung by herself (Jenisha Gautam) and Pratap Das.

The event was wonderfully hosted by Mukund Timilsina in the presence of special guests, including Sovit Basnet. Congratulatory speeches and best wishes were shared by Pratigya Adhikari, Asha Shrestha, Prakash Paudel, Nanda Gurung, Mina Gupta, and several others.
Congratulations to Jenisha Gautam, who has already produced more than a dozen songs. I wished her continued success in art, music, and her creative endeavours.

Children's Talent Night – Semi-final Selection Event – Saturday, 6 June 2026
Huge thanks to the Nepalese Australian Association (NAA) for organising the semi-final selection event in Auburn in preparation for the Children's Talent Night, which was scheduled to be held on 20 June 2026 in Blacktown.

The event was attended by a large number of children and parents, who demonstrated great enthusiasm and interest in Nepali culture and the arts. The programme was emceed by Pratigya Adhikari.

Book Interaction Program on Yug Yatra – Saturday, 13 June 2026
A vibrant and inspiring Book Interaction Program on Yug Yatra, written by Padam Kafley, was successfully held at Max Webber Library, Blacktown, in observance of Refugee Week and its themes of resilience, belonging, and shared journeys. The event brought together more than 75 attendees from the Bhutanese and Nepali communities, including writers, authors, literary enthusiasts, and community members.

The programme was smoothly emceed by Gopal Timsina. A beautiful folk song performed by Sarita Kafley, Pabitra Nepal, and Sila Gautam created a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Heartfelt congratulatory messages were delivered by Dr. Sanjaya Bantawa and Dhruba Adhikari.

The event was further enriched by Devika Kafley and Sarita Kafley, whose folk songs and poetry recitals added cultural richness and energy to the programme.
One of the highlights of the event was a presentation by Bishnu Dhungel, who reflected on the author, the Bhutanese village that inspired the setting of Yug Yatra, and the broader context of the novel. His presentation provided valuable insight into the literary journey and themes of the book.

The Book Reveal Ceremony was jointly conducted by Padam Kafley, Saurav Kiran Shrestha, Sanu Ghimire, Dhubahari Adhikari, Om Dhungel, Surendra Dawadi, and other distinguished guests, symbolising a celebration of literature, memory, and storytelling.

A thoughtful book review was presented by Surendra Dawadi, followed by an engaging panel discussion facilitated by Sanu Ghimire. The panel featured Bhakti Ram Khatiwada, Nanda Lal Bhandari, and Divyashree Acharya, who shared meaningful reflections on the novel as well as the refugee journey, identity, resilience, and settlement experiences in Australia. Their discussion made the event especially significant during Refugee Week.

The audience was deeply engaged as author Padam Kafley shared the inspiration and reflections behind the creation of Yug Yatra. The programme concluded with closing remarks by Om Dhungel. I extended my sincere thanks to Blacktown City Library, SydWest Multicultural Services, the Association of Bhutanese in Australia – Sydney, and all the speakers, contributors, volunteers, and attendees whose support made this literary gathering a great success.

This month was filled with meaningful literary, cultural, and community activities that highlighted the growing strength of the Nepali community in Australia. It was inspiring to witness writers, artists, volunteers, and community members coming together to celebrate literature, music, and culture. Each event reinforced the importance of preserving our language, sharing our stories, and creating opportunities for learning and connection. I felt grateful to meet passionate individuals who continue to contribute to our inclusive community through their creativity and dedication.