Nepalese Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision and Plan: Journal 8

14 November- 15 December 2023: Personal Journal 8

Welcome to the eighth edition of my monthly journal, where I share my endeavors in promoting Nepalese literature and writers (AB) aligning with my vision. I also invite you to join me on this journey and share your valuable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Handing over Picture Books to NAV President Prem Raj Upreti- Saturday, November 25, 2023

It was a pleasure to present several copies of my bilingual picture book, 'Kasko ho yo Anda?' (English title: 'Whose Egg is This?'), in Nepali and English to Prem Raj Upreti, the President of the Nepali Association of Victoria (NAV). These books will be donated to NAV BalChautari, serving Nepali language schools across five locations in Victoria. I'm hopeful that more than 200 students will enjoy reading these books.

Established in 1997, the Nepalese Association of Victoria (NAV) advocates for individuals of Nepalese descent in Victoria, Australia. Its mission includes promoting Nepalese culture, heritage, and fostering goodwill between Australia and Nepal. I plan to visit the language school next time and engage with the students and teachers through storytelling sessions.

Meeting with author Niru Tripathi- Saturday, November 25, 2023

Meeting Niru Tripathi, a well-known published author within the Nepali community in Melbourne, at her residence in Broadmeadows. I've long admired her work, following her on social media and reading her contributions in various online publications. Our conversation delved into creative journeys and writing techniques, leaving me genuinely inspired by her thoughtfulness and captivating imagination.

                                

During our discussion, I shared my vision and plans to promote Nepali writers within the broader Australian community. Niru graciously gifted me her novel 'Parissicano: Ek Alaukik Gatha,' published in 2020. I found immense pleasure in reading several chapters, especially diving into the life of its central character, 'Coffeekumari.' This novel proved to be a delightful companion during my flight back to Sydney from Melbourne today.

I intend to write an introductory article on her book for a wider readership. Until then, I extend my heartfelt wishes to Niru ji for her future publications and her continued literary journey.

Celebrating Safal Fest 2023's Success- Sunday, December 3, 2023

I attended a warm event celebrating the success of SafalFest 2023, hosted by ASFA Inc (Australian South Asia Forum) at the West Ryde Station Street Community Hall. During the event, I was honored with an Appreciation Certificate for serving on the SAFAL FEST 2023 organizing committee, recognizing efforts in showcasing the talents of the subcontinent community in Australia.

                        

My sincere congratulations to every member of the organizing committee and the leadership team, including Ash, Kedharnath, Saliya, and Balaji, for the successful event. I eagerly look forward to SafarFest 2024! Gratitude to Sanu Ghimire ji for connecting me with this event and its organizers.

Feedback Session on a Novel- Tuesday, December 5, 2023

I recently conducted an online feedback session with an emerging writer, Pragya Panery, who lives and studies in Sydney. I provided comprehensive feedback on her upcoming book “Bishanu Ri.” I hope my suggestions were constructive, supporting her growth as a writer.

Her novel promises a new experience for Nepali readers, incorporating elements of surrealism and mystical-realism. I see an unconventional writer blossoming in her and hope to witness her literary journey flourish. Wishing her success in her creative pursuits, I eagerly await holding her novel in my hands.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia- Thursday, December 7, 2023

Continuing my initiative to promote Nepali heritage writers and their literature in Australia, I've been introducing books written by Nepali authors based in Australia. This effort aims to showcase their contributions to both Nepali and Australian literature.

This time, I introduced a collection of poems titled 'Mangalgrahako Yatra' by Sima Roshi ji. I express gratitude to Nepal Live Today for providing space in their online magazine over the past few months. Additionally, I appreciate the continuous support from Pragya Lamsal ji for this initiative.

Please check the link below for the book introduction and remember to leave a few words in the comments box to support everyone involved in the process.

From Earth to Mars: A Journey through Sima Roshi Acharya's Poetic Universe - Nepal Live Today Nepal Live Today

Meeting with author Manisha J Poudyal- Wednesday, December 13, 2023

I had an engaging online meeting with Manisha J Poudyal, an author of Nepali descent residing in Melbourne. Learning that since 2022, she has published three delightful children's picture books in Australia—'Forgetful Freddie,' 'Bendy Bendy Road,' and 'One Last Time'—was truly inspiring.

Our discussion touched upon several topics, each having the potential to become a separate project in the future:

• Fostering a reading culture within the Nepali community.
• Embracing feedback positively as writers/authors.
• Creating opportunities for writers to learn and grow.
• Insights into self-publication, from storytelling to networking and marketing.
• Inspiring the younger generation in creative fields.
• Potential collaborations to promote writers and books across states.
• The scope of writing and Nepali writers in Australian multicultural society.

Manisha's enthusiasm for storytelling is infectious, and she plans to release 2-3 new books annually. In support, I've already placed an online order for her books for my daughter. Join me in nurturing her creative journey. Explore her works on her website: Manisha J Poudyal | children's books

In this month November/December, my focus remained steadfast on promoting Nepalese literature and fostering a vibrant community of Nepali writers in Australia. From donating bilingual picture books to Nepali language schools to engaging with established authors like Niru Tripathi and Manisha J Poudyal, each interaction was an opportunity to inspire a greater appreciation for Nepali literature. Encouraging feedback sessions with emerging writers like Pragya Panery showcased a commitment to nurturing new talent, recognizing the evolving narratives within Nepali literature.

As I continue this journey, the collaborations with organizations like ASFA Inc and platforms like Nepal Live Today helps to bridge cultures, inspire readers, and create spaces where Nepali authors thrive. 

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision and Plan: Journal 7

15 October- 14 November 2023: Personal Journal 7

Welcome to the seventh installment of my monthly journal, where I share my endeavors in championing Nepali literature and writers (AB) while staying true to my vision. I invite you to journey along and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich my learning and endeavors.

Third Book Donation Program at Max Webber Library - Monday, October 16, 2023

Continuing with my plan, I organized the third book donation program, presenting a total of 16 books by Nepali authors. These books, authored by Dhruba Hari Adikary, Dinesh Adikari, Tej Parkash Shrestha, Shashwat Parajuli, Bibek Raj Acharya, Ram Prasad Koirala, Sima Roshi Acharya, and Saurav Kiran Shrestha, were graciously handed over to Margaret Redrup-May, Coordinator of Outreach Programs. I express immense gratitude to Joelmon Zungar, the Librarian of Multi-cultural Services, for his unwavering support. Additionally, discussions on organizing workshops for local authors from diverse communities were initiated.

The donated books included:

• "Night Guest," "Manly Romanch," and "Blowhole Muskan" by Tej Parkash Shrestha.
• "The Eyes of Swayambhu" and "Bijaya Raj Acharya’s Children’s Stories" by Bijaya Raj Acharya.
• "Kasko Ho Yo Anda?" and "Talau Najikaiko Gunda" by Saurav Kiran Shrestha.
• "Ratiko Sathi" and "Bicharo Bukhyacha" by Shashwat Parlajuli.
• "Mangal Grahako Yatra" by Sima Roshi Acharya.
• "Meri Uni R Ma" by Ram Prasad Koirala.
• "Jangalko Katha Jangalko Vyatha" by Dinesh Adhikari.
• "Mero Vishwas Mero Manyata 1 & 2," "Sandarbha and Vichaar," and "Sampadaklai Chitthi" by Dhurba Hari Adikari.

                            

Picture Book Writing Prize 2023 Announcement and Picture Book Lunch - Tuesday, October 31, 2023

I had the pleasure of attending the launch of the picture book 'Paper-Flower Girl,' penned by Margrete Lamond and illustrated by Mateja Jager at WestWords in Parramatta. The event showcased emerging picture book writers, illustrators, and dedicated publishers like Dirt Lane Press. Heartfelt congratulations to both the author and illustrator for creating such a remarkable piece of work.

During the event, Michael Campbell, Executive Director/Publishing Director, announced the winner of the Picture Book Competition centered around the theme of 'BELONGING.' I was honored to become one of the two runner-ups for the writing prize, entitling me to a one-on-one Story Coaching Package with Margrete Lamond from Dirt Lane Press. My congratulations extend to all the winning writers and illustrators, including Libby Hyett, Zoe Gaetjens, Natasha Hagarty, Estee Sarsfield, and Tyswan Slater.

                                

SydWest AGM and Book Launch - Thursday, November 2, 2023

SydWest Multicultural Services celebrated its 36th Annual General Meeting (AGM) by launching a remarkable book, 'Bhutan Migration History: A Life in Three Countries,' penned by Virginia McLeod. The launch was followed by a panel discussion moderated by Mereline MurimwaRarami, featuring Mark Coure MP, Om Dhungel, and Virginia McLeod.

This insightful book sheds light on the untold journeys of Australian Bhutanese refugees, akin to 'Bhutan to Blacktown’ written by Om Dhungel. SydWest, a prominent organization in Western Sydney, has been steadfastly promoting multiculturalism, and it has been my privilege to work with them for the past 5 years. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the SydWest board members, CEO Elfa Moraitakis, and the entire leadership team for their unwavering dedication in fostering a multicultural society.

                                        

Paris Rosemont's 'Banana Girl' Book Launch - Wednesday, November 8, 2023

I joined the celebration of my colleague Paris Rosemont's debut poetry collection, 'Banana Girl,' at a launch event hosted at WestWords. Witnessing Paris's journey and dedication to becoming a published author was both prideful and inspiring. I conveyed my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for her future creative endeavors.

                                 

Paris's poetry delves into deeply personal yet universally relatable themes, exploring aspects of love, loss, heartbreak, lust, sex, violence, and the intricate dynamics of shifting power, accompanied by social commentary. Being a second-generation Asian-Australian, Paris bravely addresses issues of identity and displacement, reclaiming power through her literary expression.

This month marked a continuation of my literary engagements and community initiatives. It began with a significant book donation program, channeling the voices of Nepali authors into the Max Webber Library. I am pleased to share that I stood proudly as a runner-up in the Picture Book Writing Prize, earning a valuable Story Coaching Package.

                                

Additionally, I attended and celebrated two book launch events: 'Bhutan Migration History: A Life in Three Countries' by Virginia McLeod and 'Banana Girl' by Paris Rosemont. These experiences have contributed to nurturing the creative spirit within the rich tapestry of our multicultural community.

As these events unfolded, they served as meaningful milestones in my ongoing journey, reinforcing the profound belief that literature serves as a powerful instrument for fostering unity, understanding, and the celebration of diverse human stories.

Nepalese Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision and Plan: Journal 6

15 September- 14 October 2023: Personal Journal 6

Welcome to the sixth edition of my monthly journal, where I document my efforts to promote Nepalese literature and writers (AB) while remaining committed to my vision. I invite you to read along and share your valuable insights to enrich my learning and initiatives.

Pre-Planning Meeting with Women Writers - Friday, September 15, 2023

Once Sanu Ghimire shared an idea to unite Nepali women writers living in Australia for a collaborative project. This initiative aims to provide them with opportunities to create short stories, which will eventually be compiled into a representative collection. Since her idea aligns with my vision of promoting Nepali writers (AB) in Australian mainstream literature, I wholeheartedly supported it and offered my assistance, sharing some of my ideas.

Subsequently, Sanu organized a pre-planning meeting over the phone on September 15, which was attended by Niru Tripathi and Sudira Shah. The meeting concluded with some key discussion points, necessitating further work from the team:

Creating project guidelines and concepts for the short story writing project.

• Ensuring the quality and standards of short stories meet Australian and international norms.
• Writing stories in both English and Nepali, as well as exploring translation options.
• Planning pre- and post-workshops for participating writers, which can be conducted either online or in person.
• Identifying Australian/Nepali facilitators, mentors, and organizations that support the project's concept.
• Managing the publication of the collection.

We are hopeful that this project will gradually become a reality. My best wishes go out to Sanu and all the enthusiastic participants. It's inspiring to see Nepali women writers take the lead in an innovative project that aims to promote their work in Australia, reaching beyond Nepalese readers and audiences.

Interaction Meeting with Sabdamala Nepali Language School - Sunday, September 17, 2023

I believe it would be pertinent to share a piece of information I had with Bishu Ghimire and other team members concerning the discussion on the school curriculum and related tasks. I intend to share more information at the appropriate time.

Nepali Ghazal Fest in Sydney - Saturday, September 23, 2023

I had the pleasure of witnessing a growing passion for Nepali Ghazal in Sydney during the Ghazal event. It was indeed a carnival for Ghazal lovers, where 33 Ghazal writers came together to join the event from various states of Australia, including Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra. Civic Theatre, Hurstville, was filled with enthusiasm and cheers throughout the Ghazal recital event, which lasted for almost six hours.

I would like to congratulate Ghazal Mushayara Pariwar for organizing such a captivating, powerful, and wonderful event. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Special thanks to Jitendra Malla, Adarsh Khatri, Keshav Sharma, and other organizing team members for their continued dedication and leadership in promoting Nepali Ghazal in Australia.

SAFAL Festival 2023 and Poetry Slam Competition - Saturday, September 23, 2023

I felt privileged to be a part of the South Asian Film, Arts & Literature (SAFAL) Festival 2023 organized at the North Ryde School of Arts Community Center. Various artists, dancers, performers, and poets participated in various competitions and literature panel discussions that were organized throughout the day.

Personally, I dedicated my time to assisting the Poetry Slam Competition, which was a great success. The competition featured 12 poets from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh and was moderated by Rekha Rajvanshi. Nisprav Saji served as one of the judges. Mrs. Suman Thapa 'Sangam,' Mr. Pradip Tuladhar, and Mrs. Pratigya Adhikari represented Nepal in the competition. Special thanks to Mrs. Sima Roshi for reciting her poem, which entertained the audience.

During the occasion, Dr. Palitha Ganewatta's (Australian-Sri Lankan writer) book, 'A Tale from A Promised Land,' was launched.

Meeting with Mrs. Sima Roshi: Sunday, September 24, 2023 

I met Mrs. Sima Roshi an author and poet at her resident, Wentworthville.  She holds the position of Founder President at NAI Academy Australia. 

We discussed my vision to promote Nepali writers and literature in Australia. Additionally, we explored various potential projects that NAI Academy could undertake. I was excited and optimistic that our meeting would yield positive results soon, paving the way for greater recognition of Australian literature, especially among young and emerging Nepali writers.

During the meeting, I learned about her significant contributions to Nepali literature in Australia over the years. I wanted to express my gratitude for the gift of her poetry collection, 'Mangal Grahako Yatra,' which she kindly shared with me at her residence. I extend my best wishes to her literary endeavors.

Book Introduction - Jeewanka Tarang - Tuesday, September 26, 2023

For the past few months, as part of my vision and plan to promote writers with Nepali heritage and their literature in Australia, I have been introducing books written by Nepali authors based in Australia. I hope this initiative will help showcase Nepali writers and their contributions to both Nepali and Australian literature. I hope you welcome my efforts as an introduction to the books rather than a critical book review. Enjoy reading the introduction to the fourth book review, 'Jeewanka Tarang' by Mamata Tiwari.

Jeewanka Tarang: Expression of emotion and existence - Nepal Live Today Nepal Live Today

Facebook Notice for Book Donation - Tuesday, September 26, 2023

I would like to express my gratitude to The International Nepali Literary Society (INLS) - Sydney Chapter and Parkash Paudel for their initiative to gather books written by Nepali authors and writers residing in Australia. These collected books will be donated to the libraries of three councils: Auburn, Blacktown, and Hurstville.

A notice regarding the book collection and donation has been posted on INLS' Facebook page. Please submit three copies of your books to INLS' representative or Saurav Kiran Shrestha by December 15, 2023. Your contribution will be highly appreciated.

Meeting with Ram Koirala - Saturday, September 30, 2023

I had the pleasure of meeting Ram Koirala, the author of 'Meri Uni ra Ma,' at Two by Four cafe. His book was a personal memoir that touched upon various aspects of his life. During our brief coffee meeting, he graciously shared some of the personal anecdotes from his book, showcasing his profound respect for his mother, grandmother, and UNICEF. He also mentioned that the English version of this book was in progress. I would like to express my heartfelt best wishes for the success of his upcoming book.

Furthermore, Ram Koirala generously provided me with three copies of his book in response to a call from Prakash Paudel (International Nepali Literary Society INLS) to donate books to three libraries in Sydney. I am genuinely grateful for his invaluable contribution and support towards the INLS initiative.

SAFAL 2023's Gala Dinner and Award Night - Saturday, September 30, 2023

Gala Dinner & Awards Night was successfully organized at Pioneer Theatre in Castle Hill, Sydney by the organizing committee of The South Asian Film, Arts & Literature Festival (SAFAL Fest) 2023. SAFAL Fest is an annual event, celebrating the rich and diverse arts, culture, languages & literature of the dynamic South Asian region comprising the eight nations of: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. I felt proud as a member of the SAFAL Fest 2023 organizing committee.

I would like to congratulate Mamata Tiwari for receiving the Community Recognition Award from Mark Hodges, State Member for Castle Hill, in recognition of her significant contribution to Nepali Literature. Congratulations to Bhimsen Gurung for receiving the Significant Contribution Award from Charishma Kaliyanda, State Member for Liverpool, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Nepali Dance.

Heartfelt congratulations to Reva Shah for winning the SAFAL FEST 23 COMPETITION AWARDS in the category of Instrumental Music Under 18 years, and to Sabin Ghising for their outstanding performance in Instrumental Music over 18, making the Nepali community proud. Both of them received their awards from Hon. Peter Gangemi, Mayor of the Hills Shire Council.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Sudhira Shah, Nisparbh Saji, and Mamata Misra for their outstanding representation of Nepal and their generous dedication of time and expertise as judges and panelists for Poetry Slam, Non-Fiction Literature, and Fiction Literature, respectively, on September 23, 2023.

This remarkable event also presented awards to other talented artists from across South Asia, who presented a captivating array of performances such as dance, singing, poetry, paintings, and photography. I want to extend my gratitude to SAFAL 2023 Director Saliya Tennakoon and the organizing team, including Kedarnath Pagaddinnimath, Ash Gholkar, Sanu Ghimire, and others.

Interaction with Ken P, Lyricist and Musician - Thursday, October 12, 2023

I had a very cordial interaction with Ken P over FaceTime (online). Kened Pradhan is well known as Ken P in his musical and literary circles. He is a versatile personality working for the promotion of Nepali heritage and language through his song, music, and poems. He is originally from Darjeeling, India, whose ancestry shares Nepali heritage. I met him first in the cultural event organized by Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities Forum Australia (NINFA) to commemorate the International Day of the World's Indigenous People 2023 at Petersham Town Hall, NSW on August 13, 2023.

During the online meeting, he shared his passion toward mother language, Nepali heritage, and its importance to him. For him, music and song are the creative medium to feel closeness toward the language and land that he had to leave behind. Philosophic by heart, he told some stories behind his poems and his journey in poem writing in the Nepali language. He also shared his rough experience about publishing three collections which didn't turn out very well. He has also composed and produced several songs and officially uploaded videos on his YouTube channel.

As a reader, I provided some general feedback on his three poetry collections: Kenp's Book of Poetry, Reflections (2017), and Aabhash (2019). I extended my best wishes for his 4th edition of the book. I really admire his continued contribution toward Nepali culture and his role in bridging the gap between all Nepali people coming from two different geographies separated by political maps - India and Nepal and living in Australia.

In summary, this month thrilled me to share the progress and exciting events related to my mission of promoting Nepali literature and authors in Australia.

I expressed my gratitude to The International Nepali Literary Society (INLS) - Sydney Chapter for its initiation to collecting books authored by Nepalis writers in Australia, which will be donated to local libraries. It's a heartening initiative that underscores the value of preserving and sharing our literary heritage.

Another key highlight is a pre-planning meeting I attended with women writers, led by the visionary Sanu Ghimire. This meeting focused on uniting Nepali women writers living in Australia for a collaborative short story project. 

Additionally, I shared my experiences and insights from various cultural events and meetings, all of which contribute to the larger goal of enriching Nepali literature and fostering connections within Australia and other parts of the world. 

It's truly inspiring to witness the passion and dedication of individuals who are working diligently to bring our culture and literature to the forefront in Australia, like Ghazal Mushayara Pariwar, Ken P and others.

Nepalese Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision and Plan: Journal 5

 15 August - 14 September 2023: Personal Journal 5

Welcome to the fifth edition of my monthly journal, where I document my efforts to promote Nepalese literature and writers (AB) while remaining true to my commitments. I invite you to read along and share your valuable insights to enrich my learning and initiatives.

Blacktown Teej Celebration 2023 - Sunday, August 20, 2023

The Blacktown Nepalese Community in Australia and Samjhana Pathsala (Nepali Community Language School) successfully organized the Blacktown Teej Night 2023. The event was attended by over 350 community members, parents, and students. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests such as Blacktown City’s Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Councillor Livingston Chettipally, and Councillor Susai Benjamin OAM.

Teej is a significant festival primarily observed and celebrated by Hindu women. It involves fasting, worship, gathering, dancing, and singing. During the festival, women typically adorn themselves in red attire or bridal gowns. The essence of the festival lies in commemorating the penance undertaken by goddess Parvati to attain Lord Shiva as her husband.

In Australia, events like this provide an opportunity for Nepali communities to come together, fostering a stronger sense of unity and camaraderie. It serves as an inspiration for collaboration and encourages them to work collectively, strengthening the bonds that tie them. Furthermore, events like these play a vital role in promoting cultural unity, allowing traditions and values to be shared and embraced by all. The transmission of Nepali values to the younger generation becomes a natural outcome, ensuring that the rich heritage and customs are carried forward in this diverse and multicultural society.

Pathsala: Library Bag Handover - Sunday, September 3, 2023

I handed over a library bag to Pathashala Nepali Language School in Bardia, among students and teachers. This marks my third instance of distributing library bags. Earlier this month, I also distributed similar library bags to Samjhana Pathashala and Sabdabamal Nepali Language School.

The language school was established on February 10, 2019, on the occasion of Saraswati Puja, under the banner of Edmondson Park Bardia Nepali Community, situated within the premises of Bardia Public School.

The bag contains over 40 children's books in Nepali, including picture books, with the goal of benefiting the students. The school aims to enhance students' proficiency in the Nepali language and culture. I am optimistic that these resources will benefit more than 70 students in their Nepali language learning journey.

Thanks to Bishnu Ghimire ji for his coordination and Prakash Bastakoti for receiving the bag on behalf of the school.

Interaction with Om Dhungel, Author - Sunday, September 10, 2023

The International Nepali Literary Society (INLS), Children Committee, organized an online interaction program with Om Dhungel, the author of "Bhutan to Blacktown." The main focus of the interaction was to share his experience of the book publication journey in Australia and provide some valuable lessons and guidance to Nepali origin writers, both young and adult, who aspire to publish their books in Australia. Some of his advice to writers before publishing a book included:

• Understand why you are writing.

• Enjoy your writing process.

• Share your ideas, seek support from others, and collaborate to reach a wider audience.

• Work in alignment with the publisher's interests but have your own standpoint and be prepared for negotiation.

As critics, senior Nepali journalists Dhurba Hari Adhikari and Saurav Kiran Shrestha shed some light on Om Dhungel's personality and his book, "Bhutan to Blacktown." In the snapshot, I would like to borrow a few words from Madhu Pudasaini, Vice President of FeNCAA, to describe the book: simple, easy to read, an expression of gratitude, and organic historical accounts of Bhutanese with Nepali heritage. The book is well-documented for future generations to explore the truth about migration, movement, refugee experiences, and settlement.

The interaction program was chaired by Govardhan Puja, President of INLS, and moderated by Dr. Prakash Poudel. The online event was live streamed on INLS’s Facebook page and is available in the following link:   (20+) Facebook

or

https://www.facebook.com/inlshq/videos/827269485533299

In this fifth edition of my monthly journal, I highlight the successful organization of the Blacktown Teej Night 2023, a significant festival celebrated by Hindu women in Australia, which fosters unity and cultural sharing among Nepali communities. Additionally, I discuss the distribution of library bags to Nepali language schools and an insightful online interaction with Om Dhungel, author of "Bhutan to Blacktown," offering valuable advice for aspiring Nepali writers in Australia and shedding light on the importance of preserving historical accounts and refugee experiences. These endeavors collectively contribute to the promotion of Nepalese literature and cultural unity in a diverse society.