Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 15

16 June - 15 July: Personal Journal 15

Celebrating the 211th Bhanu Jayanti

This year, the 211th Bhanu Jayanti became a special day for me. Several events were organized in Australia to commemorate and honor Bhanubhakta Acharya (1814–1868), the Nepali writer renowned for translating the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit to Nepali. Bhanubhakta Acharya, often referred to as "Aadikabi," meaning "the first poet," holds a pivotal position in Nepali literature.

I was privileged to attend two events dedicated to Nepali literature and Bhanu Jayanti.

The first event was jointly organized by the International Nepali Literary Society, New South Wales Chapter, in collaboration with the Nepali Art, Culture, and Literature Foundation, and Tanahu Society Australia on Saturday, 15 June 2024, at Rato Ghar, Granville. The first part of the event focused on poem and ghazal recitation, while the second session included art and culture, with activities such as dance, singing, award distribution, and various other activities. Thanks to Prakash Poudel and Bhabana Parajuli ji for your cordial invitation and congratulations to all organizing members for making this event successful.

The second event I attended was organized by the Association of Bhutanese in Australia (ABA) Sydney on Saturday, 13 July 2024. At the event, Puspa Acharya ji, Nagendra Sharma ji, and I recited Ghazals. We have been practicing Ghazal writing in a small group with a few other members for the past couple of months, and this was the first time both Puspa ji and I recited Ghazals at such a wonderful program, where more than 15 poets and personalities recited their poems and discussed the importance of preserving and promoting the Nepali language.

I would like to thank President Devendra Gautam and the entire organizing committee of ABA Sydney for bringing discussions on Bhanubhakta's contributions to the Nepali language and literature, and for the recitation of Bhanubhakta's Ramayana. On this occasion, Ramesh Gautam was honored for his extraordinary contributions toward the Nepali language and the Bhutanese community in Norway.

I was aware of a third event, which was held in Queensland by the International Nepali Literature Society Queensland Chapter and the Nepalese Association of Queensland (NAQ) on 20 July 2024 in Brisbane. All these events were evidence of the growing scope and magnitude of Nepali languages, arts, literature, and culture in Australia.

Ghazal Catch-up - Sunday, 16 June 2024

We once again gathered in a small group at Choice Academic College, Parramatta, before the poet Gyanu Walker Poudyal left for Nepal. He wished to meet us and learn about our progress in our Ghazal writings. During the catch-up, we discussed our learning journey and recited our Ghazals written during the learning process. It was impressive to see our improvement after almost three months since our first Ghazal Writing Workshop in April 2024 at Max Webber Library. I would like to thank Gyanu sir for his mentorship and time, which really encouraged some of the passionate writers in Western Sydney.

WestWords Online Seminar - Sunday, 7 July 2024

I attended the 'WestWords Online Seminar - How to Run a Writing Workshop'. The workshop aimed to equip authors with the tools to host their own workshops. Thanks to Ally Burnham for running the workshop and sharing her experience, which helped us hone our skills and pitch workshops.

I look forward to running some creative workshops as discussed and learned during the seminar in the near future. I also advise providing an opportunity for aspiring authors to shadow some of the workshops organized by WestWords to build confidence and gain experience.

A Project 2024 - Wednesday, 10 July 2024

I would like to thank and acknowledge Mahesh Poudyal for accepting my invitation to facilitate an online session on the use of symbols in short story writing workshops. It was inspiring to see some participants have started to apply learning from the session in their writing. I am excited to see the final product of the project next year.

Meeting with Nawa Raj Khatiwada - Friday, 12 July 2024

On the cold afternoon, I met Nawa Raj Khatiwada, Rita Khatiwada, and Sanu Ghimire. We all gathered to attend WestWords' Open Mic Program at Parramatta. We shared brief introductions while waiting for warm Momo in the recently opened Nepali 8848 Restaurant. It was a pleasure to learn that Nawa Raj ji is a writer and thinker, having published several academic and thought-provoking articles in journals and online. His travelogue ‘Jholako Bar’ was published in 2019. My best wishes to him.

WestWords Academy Open Mic Program - Friday, 12 July 2024

Personally, this was a proud moment for me as I saw Sanu Ji, one of our Nepali writers, capture the attention of the English-speaking audience with her captivating short story "The Shades of Lipstick" recitation at the Open Mic Program.

There is a saying, "You wish, I will fulfill it." It seems our Australia-based Nepali writers' shared vision and effort have started to work. Thanks to everyone who is inspiring each other, working hard, and exploring outside their comfort zones to promote Nepali writers and literature in the Australian context.

J. Marahuyo successfully brought the program to life with her skillful emceeing. She was also a 2022 WestWords Academic and the recipient of the Living Stories Award 2024.

The 211th Bhanu Jayanti became a memorable celebration for me, marked by a series of special events in Australia to honor the Nepali first poet. I attended several events where various poets, including myself, recited our works, which showcased the growing influence of Nepali culture in Australia. Additionally, I participated in a Ghazal writing catch-up, an online seminar on running writing workshops, and a session on using symbols in short story writing. 

While reflecting on my continued engagement with diverse literary groups and communities, I have found the following positive and motivating outcomes: 

• Strengthened connections with my fellow Nepali writers and artists, fostering a sense of community.

• Increased my participation in cultural/literary events, which helped promote Nepali language and literature in Australia.

• Improved my Ghazal writing skills through practice and feedback from peers.

• Fostered a supportive environment for aspiring poets, encouraging collaboration and learning.

• Gained valuable insights into running writing workshops, equipping me with tools to host my own.

• Inspired me to consider organizing creative writing workshops in the future to share knowledge and skills with others.

• Learned effective techniques for incorporating symbols into my short stories, enhancing the depth and meaning of my writing.

• Observed participants applying these techniques, which validated the effectiveness of the workshop.

• Experienced the joy of seeing a fellow Nepali writer captivate an English-speaking audience, which was a proud moment for our community.

• Recognized the importance of supporting and promoting Nepali writers in diverse literary settings.

Overall, I believe my involvement in these activities has not only enriched my personal and professional growth as a writer but also contributed to the promotion and preservation of Nepali literature and culture in Australia.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 14

16 May - 15 June: Personal Journal 14

Welcome to the fourteenth 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 and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Picture Book Workshop Session 1 - Saturday, 18 May 2024

As a trainer, I facilitated the first online session on Picture Book Writing for both emerging and established writers and illustrators in Nepal as part of the Picture Book Development on Endangered Species project. This is a collaboration between Greenhood and Kathalaya Nepal, aiming to create picture books that raise awareness and advocate for the preservation and protection of endangered animals and species.

The session was attended by Sajani Naubage, Prakash Poudel, Neeti Shrestha, Elisha Ghimire, Ashmita, Binita Buddhacharya, Kushal Shrestha, Krisha Tamrakar, Amit and Jenisha Suman. Special thanks to Rajeev Ji for providing this wonderful opportunity and bringing all the enthusiastic writers, illustrators, and environmentalists into the online room.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia - Friday, 19 May 2024

Continuing my initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers and their literature in Australia, this month I introduced "A New Dawn," a book by Sydney-based Nepali author Mamata Pant Mishra. I hope you will welcome it as warmly as you have welcomed my previous introductions. Thank you to The DMN News for providing space on your online platform. Please check the link below for the book introduction and remember to share the link on your FB or on social media.  

A New Dawn: Exploring Human Emotions, Relationships, and Second Chances - The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal The DMN News | Breaking News, Live Updates, Analysis from Nepal

International Children’s Literature Conference - Saturday, 25 May 2024

I had the privilege to attend and speak at the second International Children's Literature Conference 2024, organized by the International Nepali Literary Society (INLS) Children's Committee. The conference was organized via Zoom, where over 30 children from countries such as Australia, Japan, Korea, the United States, Canada, Portugal, and Nepal showcased their literary works along with various cultural mantras, Vedic recitations, and other cultural and singing talents.

The speakers at the event included Rohini Sharma, Padam Bishwakarma, Shiva Lamichhane, Govardhan Puja, Sarvajna Wagle, Rajendra Shrestha, Bimala Niraula, Ritadevi Pradhan, Yashoda Adhikari, and Saurav Kiran Shrestha. The conference was held under the chairmanship of Balatara Literature Committee Coordinator Dr. Prakash Poudel. The event was jointly hosted in Nepali by Children's Committee member Arjun Sadaula from Japan, and children Reva Shah from Australia, and Sachin Chapagain and Abhas Aryal from America. Nepal Children's Literature Society President Pramod Pradhan served as the chief guest. The conference concluded with the issuance of a seven-point declaration. For details, please visit the link:

अनेसासको दोस्रो अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय बालसाहित्य सम्मेलन ७ बुँदे घोषणापत्र जारी गर्दै सम्पन्न – inlsdarpan.com

Ghazal Feedback Session - Thursday, 27 May 2024

I spent some time with Nagendar Sharma, who is an enthusiastic and emerging Ghazal writer. As a student of Ghazal writing myself, we discussed our pieces of writing and provided feedback on each other's Ghazals. We felt our friendship growing as we were learning and exchanging ideas together.

A Project - May 2024

I feel privileged and excited to see some of my actions and visions have been materializing with the support of a passionate group of writers, well-wishers, and WestWord. On Wednesday, 22 May 2024, we started a project with an introductory online session followed by a one-day workshop on Saturday, 1 June 2024, at WestWord Parramatta. I have been engaging with the group and prominent writers/speakers to organize and facilitate a series of sessions and workshops and plan the project. I am looking forward to seeing the substantive outcome of this project next year. Best wishes to all who are involved and contributing to this project.

I would like to acknowledge all the participants, speakers, resource persons, and trainers, including Dr. Sabitri Kakshapati, Om Dhungel, Jiva Nath Lamsal, Michael Campbell, and Saman Shad. 

Picture Book Feedback Session - Tuesday, 4 June 2024

I conducted an online feedback session with Neeti Shrestha, an aspiring graphic designer, illustrator, and emerging writer from Nepal. She has already published her illustrations in a few picture books. During the session, I provided critical feedback and suggestions on her project, where she will be both the author and illustrator of a picture book dealing with a sensitive subject. I hope our honest conversation will assist her in shaping a wonderful picture book and advancing her creative journey. Thanks to Rajeev Ji and Kathalaya for arranging this opportunity.

Meeting with Bharat Rai - Sunday, 9 June 2024

I met Bharat Rai at the Max Webber Library, Blacktown. He is an author, playwright, actor, and director. His literary articles have been published in several Nepali literary magazines in Nepal and Australia. During the meeting, he gave me his book "Suruaat" (a collection of short stories). I also shared my vision for promoting Nepali literature and writers in Australia.

We discussed about supporting each other in creative initiatives, exploring possibilities to organize regular meetings and sessions that provide opportunities for authors from diverse cultural backgrounds to come together and share their ideas and experiences. I also provided some information about the initiatives from Blacktown City Libraries that provide similar opportunities. We also thought about starting conversations with the libraries and other interested writers in the near future.

In conclusion, this month has been highly productive and inspiring, marked by meaningful engagements with fellow writers and literary enthusiasts. From facilitating workshops and conferences to providing critical feedback and discussing new projects, each activity has contributed to the collective goal of promoting Nepali literature and supporting emerging talents in Australia. The collaborations and discussions have not only enriched my personal vision but also strengthened the network of writers and literary advocates committed to preserving and advancing our cultural heritage. As I move forward, I am excited to see the outcomes of these initiatives and continue building a vibrant community of creative minds.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 13

 16 April- 15 May: Personal Journal 13

Welcome to the thirteenth 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 and contribute your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Month of Ghazal

This month was predominated by sessions on Ghazal writing and exercises. Therefore, I have collated all the Ghazal related activities within this period under the heading "Month of Ghazal" to make it easy to read. It was satisfactory to see some development in our Ghazal writings, which will eventually reach an audience one day.

1. Ghazal Writing Workshop - Saturday, 27 April 2024 

If I am not mistaken, the first Ghazal Writing Workshop in the heart of Western Sydney at Max Weber Library, Blacktown, was organized. I believe this will kickstart the practice of Ghazal writing among Nepali poets in Western Sydney and inspire others. I would like to sincerely thank the prominent Nepali Ghazalist/poet Gyanu Walker Poudyal for facilitating the workshop. Active participation from all made this workshop interesting and engaging. As we aspired to continue this journey collectively, I look forward to seeing all participants start writing, publishing, or reciting Ghazals/poems in the near future. I believe all of us gained something from his experience, insights, and teachings. We were touched, inspired, and motivated. No doubt, this workshop will successfully promote Nepali literary activities in Western Sydney.

                    

The workshop was attended by Tripura Poudyal, Puspa Lal Acharya, Nanda Bhandari Nimesh, Komal Khatiwada, Nagendra Sharma, Sumitra Rajbhandari, Ratna Thapa, Jit Gopali Ji, Punu Gopali, Rona Gopali, and Saurav Kiran. I am grateful to Gyanu Walker, Puspa Ji, and Blacktown Library for supporting me morally and physically in organizing this successful workshop. 2. Catch Up with Gyanu Walker Poudyal - Saturday, 4 May 2024

Puspa Ji and I visited Gyanu Walker Poudyal at his home in Merrylands to get some feedback on our draft Ghazals. His guidance on my Ghazal writing journey was significant for me. We had tea together and discussed Ghazal. As we left his home, we felt like we had learned something valuable. For me, his presence in Sydney was a blessing.            

                        

3. Ghazal Writing Session - Saturday, 11 May 2024

Following the first Ghazal Writing Workshop, I organized a second workshop with Sydney-based well-known Nepali Ghazalist Jitendra Malla.

It was rainy outside, but six enthusiastic brothers braved the gloomy weather and gathered at my home for the Session led by Jitendra Malla. The engaging session proved helpful in understanding the basic elements of Ghazal as we learned from each other's work, identifying areas for improvement. It inspired us to continue practicing our writing. Our appreciation goes to Jitendra Ji for making time available and sharing his knowledge and skills with us: Puspa Lal Acharya, Nanda Bhandari Nimesh, Komal Khatiwada, Nagendra Sharma, and Saurav Kiran.

4. Ghazal Feedback Session - Thursday, 16 May 2024

After two Ghazal sessions by Gyanu Walker Poudyal and Jitendra Malla, we decided to organize an online Ghazal Feedback Session via Messenger as needed. On 16 May, Komal Ji and Nagendra Ji shared their Ghazals, and others provided constructive feedback. During the process, we honed our skills on some elements of Ghazal writing, like understanding Matala, Kafiya, and fixing some Kafiya dosh. The online session was attended by Nanda, Sumitra, Komal, Jit Ji, Nagendra, and Saurav.

Reunion of Poets and Writers at Austral - Sunday, 28 April 2024

I had the pleasure of witnessing a soulful reunion of poets and writers after periods of social isolation due to the pandemic. The gathering took place at Austral, at the residence of the well-known poet Maheshwar Sharma, based in Sydney.

The informal gathering transformed into a delightful poetic symposium, where enthusiastic poets recited their Ghazals and poems. Personally, this gathering was inspiring and recharging. At the same time, the assurance from Jitendra Malla and Surendra Dawadi to support my literary initiatives motivated me even further.

Prominent Nepali poets and writers like Gyanu Walker Poudyal, Gargi Sharma, Jitendra Malla, Surendra Dawadi, Sanu Prem Jyotsana, Pragya Paneru, Moon Miracle, Tripura Poudel, Tulasa Pande, Shweta Mainali, Bhabana Parajuli, Buddhisagar Dawadi, Thakur Prasad Panth, Asmit C. Regmi, and other poets, presented their mesmerizing and captivating Ghazals, poems, and free verses. I would like to thank Sonam Pandey Sharma for her warm hospitality, which made the gathering feel warm and homely. WWAG (WestWords Alumni Group) 2024 May Session - Sunday, 5 May 2024

The WWAG May Session was successfully organized and attended by Artelle Lenthall, Christine Johnson, and Saurav Shrestha. I would like to thank WestWords and my alumni colleagues for trusting me in my role as the group facilitator. During the session, we all shared our works in progress.

In my turn, I proudly shared my engagement with Australia-based Nepali writers and some of its outcomes. I also shared progress about Nepali Ghazal/poetry and our initiatives for Ghazal workshops/sessions. Additionally, I shared my work on the picture book "My Funniest Mummy" and received group feedback on it. Thanks to Artelle and Christine for your genuine and honest feedback, which I will consider in my work. Featured in Creator and Creation - Monday, 13 May 2024

I felt proud to be featured in the 9th edition of the Creator and Creation series, coordinated by Ramesh Chandra Ghimire and designed by Lokendra Shakya. The aim of the series is to promote and showcase creators/writers in the digital space.

This month has been a significant journey in promoting and nurturing Nepali literature, particularly Ghazal writing. I'm pleased with the progress in our Ghazal writings, which will eventually be shared with an audience. The workshops, feedback sessions, and gatherings have been both inspiring and educational, bringing our community closer together. I am grateful for the support and participation of everyone involved. I look forward to continuing this literary journey with all of you. Your contributions and insights are invaluable as we strive to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 12

 16 March- 15 April: Personal Journal 12

Time passed in the blink of an eye. It's unbelievable that I am compiling this 12th edition of my monthly journal. The year (2080 BS) has been a Great Year of exploration and learning for me. Throughout the year, I have invested a great deal of time, energy, and skills to showcase and promote Nepali literature and writers (AB), aligning with my five-year vision and plan. Obviously, I will analyze and reflect on my actions and learning over the year in another report/blog, separately.

This time, please welcome a regular monthly journal. As usual, I extend a warm invitation to join me on this journey, contributing your invaluable insights to enrich our collective learning and initiatives.

Western Sydney KidLit (WSKL) Writing and Critique Group- Saturday, 23 March 2024

I attended the Western Sydney KidLit (WSKL) Writing and Critique Group at Seven Hills. I learned that this group has been active for a few years, started by some motivated writers for children. The main objective of the group was to meet monthly and provide critical feedback on the submitted stories and moral support to fellow writers. On that day, I enjoyed engaging in group conversations, sharing experiences, reading stories, and providing feedback. It was a pleasure to meet authors and writers Jo, Carolyn, Zoe, Tommy, Dannielle, and Artelle. Thanks to Artelle Lenthall for inviting me to and hosting the meeting. 

Multicultural Authors Workshop- Monday, 25 March 2024

Blacktown City Libraries had successfully organized two sessions of the Multicultural Authors Workshop over the two weeks in March. The workshop was facilitated by Michael and Ally Burnham from WestWords. Thanks to Joelmon for managing and hosting the highly needed workshops for diverse communities in Blacktown.

The workshop session included experience sharing from published authors from multicultural backgrounds followed by topic discussions like motivation for writing, transitioning from multiculturalism to inter-culturism, the potential applications of AI in translation in the near future, and the comparison between self-publication and traditional publication.

During the closing session, participants showed a growing need for a multicultural writer's group in Blacktown, supported by the library and organizations like WestWords. Additionally, there was a call for immediate workshops focusing on translation and sessions on the heoretical/philosophical concepts of Australian literature. I am optimistic that Blacktown City Libraries will lead some positive initiatives soon to engage multicultural authors and writers in Blacktown and Western Sydney.

Highlighting Nepali Authors in Australia- Friday, 29 March 2024

Continuing my initiative to showcase Nepali heritage writers and their literature in Australia, this month I introduced the three children's picture books Bendy-Bendy Road, Forgetful Freddie, and One Last Time written by Melbourne-based Nepali author Manisha J Poudyal Passion Unleashed: Three picture books of imagination, humor, and hope by an IT architect-turned author.

Thanks to Nepal Live Today for providing space and continuous support. Please check the link below for the book introduction and remember to share the link on your FB and kindly leave a few words in the comments box to support everyone involved in the process. Passion Unleashed: Three picture books of imagination, humor, and hope by an IT architect-turned author « Nepal Live Today Book Signing at Dymocks- Saturday, 6 April 2024

I attended a book signing event of one of my friends, Author Zoe Alicia Gaetjens, on her debut book, "Little Angler" (a lift-the-flap book).  

                 

I was excited to get a signed copy from her at Dymocks, Rouse Hill. The book was illustrated by Heidi McKinnon and published by Affirm Press.

WestWords Alumni Group- Monday 8, April 2024

Since May 2024, I have been taking the role of facilitator of WestWords Alumni Group 2024. This month, I facilitated an inspirational group of authors for the second time. Three writers shared their articles for critical feedback. It was a great learning experience for me.

I wish Australia-based Nepali writers should run similar group sessions regularly for critique feedback on their writing and develop a culture of discussion on both Nepali and Australian literature.

WestWords Academy 2024: Meet and Greet- Sunday, 14 April 2024

I attended the WestWords Academy 2024 event to welcome a new batch of writers to the Academy. It was a pleasure to meet and greet both new and emerging writers, WestWords Alumni, and academics. I would also like to congratulate Sanu Ghimire Jyotsana for participating in the program representing the Nepali writers' community.

The WestWords Academy is a year-long training program designed for emerging writers and multidisciplinary artists. It provides support and mentorship to help these artists hone their craft, develop creative projects, seek opportunities, and organize arts events. Throughout the year, WestWords organizes seminars and workshops led by expert facilitators. A heartfelt thanks to WestWords, the center for writing.

This month has been another amazing one for me. I've started to see some positive outcomes from my efforts over the last 11 months, which I will discuss in a separate post or blog. I attended the Western Sydney KidLit (WSKL) Writing and Critique Group, where I had a fantastic time engaging with fellow writers and providing feedback on their stories. Additionally, I participated in the Multicultural Authors Workshop organized by Blacktown City Libraries, where we discussed various topics related to writing and multiculturalism. The workshop highlighted the need for more support for multicultural writers in the community.

Furthermore, I continued my efforts to showcase Nepali authors in Australia by introducing three children's picture books by Melbourne-based author Manisha J Poudyal via online platforms like Nepal Live Today. I also had the pleasure of attending a book signing event for my friend Zoe Alicia Gaetjens' debut book, "Little Angler," and facilitating the WestWords Alumni Group, where we provided critical feedback on each other's work. Lastly, I welcomed new writers to the WestWords Academy 2024, a program designed to support emerging writers and artists throughout the year. Overall, it's been a fulfilling month of connecting with fellow writers, supporting multicultural literature, and continuing to promote Nepali authors in Australia. I'm grateful for these experiences and look forward to what the future holds in the Nepali New Year 2081.

Nepali Writer and Literature in Australia- My Vision, Plan and Action: Journal 11

 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:

Discovering Bliss Within: Acharya Rajan Sharma's 'Key to Happiness'  - Nepal Live Today Nepal Live Today

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.