“Bendy-Bendy Road” is published in both English and bilingual (English and Nepali) languages. Dr. Merina Lohani translated English to Nepali for the bilingual version. It is a fun story about a young boy who visits his grandma’s new home and sees a long, bending road coming from up the hills with twists and turns running down toward somewhere. He wonders what’s at the end of it and, with his grandma’s help, he finds out. This book is perfect for kids who love imaginative stories.

“Forgetful Freddie” is a hilarious story of a boy who is aware of his weakness of forgetfulness. He loves playing soccer but forgets something very important just before a game starts. The concept of the book is very familiar to Nepali parents and readers as it is adapted from one of the popular Nepali fables. The story is skilfully presented for English readers. With charming illustrations, the picture book is enjoyed by any age group.

Her third picture book, “One Last Time,” tells the story of a young boy who has to leave his home for safety reasons. He feels sad about leaving behind all the things he loves, like his friends and favorite places. But even though it’s hard, he learns to be hopeful about starting a new life somewhere else. The story shows that even when things are scary and uncertain, we can still find happiness and new beginnings. 

Manisha relocated to Australia at her age 19 to study Computer Science. Despite living in Australia, she cherishes her heritage and wishes to infuse Nepalese spirit into her writing. Manisha aims to simplify complex ideas for young readers. She gives credit to her 7-year-old son, who inspires her to write more interesting picture books. I wish her the best.

Book Title: Bendy-Bendy Road

Author: Manisha J Poudyal
Language: English
Genre: Picture book for children
Book Design and Illustration: YouTbooks.com
Manufactured by: Amazon.com.au
Published Year: 2022
English Price: $ 14.99 AUD, Bilingual (English and Nepali) Price: $ 18.66 AUD
Pages of Bilingual Version: 64

Book Title: Forgetful Freddie

Author: Manisha J Poudyal
Language: English
Genre: Picture book for children
Book Design and Illustration: Jon Klassen
Manufactured by: Amazon.com.au
Published Year: 2022
English Price: $ 14.99 AUD
Pages: 28

Book Title: One Last TimeAuthor: Manisha J Poudyal
Language: English
Genre: Picture book for children
Book Design and Illustration: YouTbooks.com
Manufactured by: Amazon.com.au
Published Year: 2023
English Price: $ 14.99 AUD
Pages:36

In ‘Key to Happiness,’ Acharya Rajan delves into a variety of practical topics through 24 short articles that explore the philosophical and spiritual aspects of life, rooted in Eastern concepts. He intertwines these with quotes from Western thinkers and presents evidence to support his discussions. The primary message the author aims to convey through this book is that ‘it is 100 percent possible to find happiness within, and you can achieve that.’

In one of his essays, he poetically describes life as water, emphasizing the power to color it and shape it as one desires. He encourages readers to recognize their immense capacity to dream and turn those dreams into reality, advocating for a life led with commitment rather than mere wishes.

Several articles stand out, such as ‘Let’s Count Life by Smiles,’ ‘Life can thus become Festive,’ ‘Mug up these Tips – You will Never be Unhappy,’ ‘Colossal Hardship for Brief Pleasure,’ and ‘Hardship is a Boon, not a Curse.’

The article titled ‘Best Tips from the Srimad Bhagwad Gita for a Successful Life’ sheds light on Hindu scriptures and religious beliefs. This may pose a challenge for readers with diverse religious backgrounds, and some atheists may choose to overlook it. Nevertheless, the article highlights several prescribed methods to attain complete wisdom and happiness that are universal and acceptable, such as consistently embracing goodness and virtue, engaging in selfless service, action, and contribution, and making sacrifices by letting go of rage, obsession, greed, aversion, intoxication, and jealousy. Additionally, the importance of cultivating friendships and connecting with a god, teacher, guru, or wise and learned person is emphasized.

The book concludes with a brief yet powerful article, ‘Let’s Celebrate Every Breath,’ where Acharya Rajan advises readers to embrace death with the same acceptance as they welcomed their birth.

Beyond his literary contributions, Acharya Rajan, also known as Bhimsen Sapkota, has been actively involved in serving communities in various roles, from a spiritual leader and yoga teacher to an author. His other publications include ‘Yoga Philosophy and Ancient Healing,’ ‘Bhatkeyko Parkhal,’ ‘Prashnama Ishwar,’ and ‘Safaltako Shutra.’

Acharya Rajan serves as the Cultural Ambassador of Nepal-Republic of Fiji and the Peace Ambassador of the World Peace Council. He is the founder of the Global Society for Peace and Spiritual Science Inc (GSPSS), NSW, tirelessly working to establish the Pashupati Baudha Dham & Bishow Shanti Ashram in Lyndhurst, NSW—a place for Nepali temple, meditation, yoga, and Ayurvedic services. Best wishes to him for his dynamic efforts in bringing multicultural communities together through literature, spirituality, and yoga in Australia and around the world.

Book Title: Sukhasutra (English Translation: Key to Happiness)
Author: Acharya Rajan Sharma
Language: Nepali
Genre: Collection of articles
Publisher: Global Society for Peace and Spiritual Science Inc (GSPSS), Nepal
Published Year: 2018
Price: NRs 400.00
Pages: 140

English Version: Key to Happiness
Author: Yogi Acharya Rajan Sharma
Translator: Mahesh Po
Language: English
Genre: Collection of articles
Publisher:  BN Pustak Sansar Pvt. Ltd. Nepal
Published Year: 2022
Price: NRs 300.00
Pages: 148

For coffee enthusiasts eager to explore new flavors while enjoying a romantic read, “Parissicano: A Phenomenal Ballad” (an English translation of the book’s title) should unquestionably grace your reading list. The narrative revolves around Manu-Kafikumari, a young woman on a quest for love, belonging, and life’s aspirations. It deeply explores the challenges faced by many Nepalese young women during their migration to Australia, from the struggles of student life to navigating the complexities of obtaining Permanent Residency and ultimately citizenship. Through Manu’s journey, the author sheds light on the toll taken by newcomers striving to fulfill their dreams in Australia.

The novel is a deep dive into Manu’s life, spanning from her puberty to middle age. Each phase brings forth a tapestry of stories woven with diverse characters and incidents, ranging from her parents, school, boyfriend Samir, college and career pursuits, love, encounters with betrayal, immigration agents, fake marriages, her experiences in Australia, the coffee shop, and moments of redemption.

The novel is a rich blend of emotions, encompassing love, desire, sex, and the complexities of human relationships, including friendship, family, and marriage. It evokes feelings of helplessness, anger, sadness, and hope, portraying the nuances of regret, shame, compromise, deception and the desire for revenge.

Within this narrative, it addresses the weight of family expectations and control, particularly as they pertain to women’s careers and lives. It paints a vivid picture of the struggles endured by those living far from their families, their yearning for understanding amidst hardships, and their persistent longing for a reunion with their Nepalese families. Furthermore, it offers glimpses into Australian life through characters like Madam Qurie, Edvard, Paris, and their families, essential elements interwoven into the fabric of the narrative.

Tripathi skillfully navigates the clash between Australian values of multiculturalism, open family structures, and sexual freedom and challenges conventional Nepali notions of love, marriage, loyalty, and responsibility. While some readers may find these cultural intersections challenging, they serve to provoke thoughts on freedom and individualism practiced in Australia.

Known as a prominent journalist and lyricist within the Melbourne Nepali community, Tripathi’s debut novel stands as a testament to her quality, passion, and dedication. It’s a beautifully crafted work that promises not to disappoint readers, setting a high standard for her future endeavors as a serious novelist. Best wishes to her as she continues her literary journey.

Book Title: Parissicano: Ek Alaukik Gatha (English Translation: Parissicano: A Phenomenal Ballad)
Author: Niru Tripathi
Language: Nepali
Genre: Novel
Publisher: Book Hill, Kathmandu Nepal
Published Year: 2020 (2076 BS)
Price: ADU $ 10
Pages: 272

Throughout the collection, Sima Roshi Acharya has delved into a diverse array of topics, ranging from the environment, science, and spirituality to war, peace, social issues, and justice. Her exploration extends from village life to city life, encompassing reflections on Covid-19 and celebrations of Harmony Day. Acharya seamlessly navigates the realms of dreams and reality, weaving her words across the landscapes of Nepal to Australia. Moreover, she takes readers on an imaginative journey from Earth to Mars and beyond the confines of the Universe. Acharya’s vivid imagination knows no bounds, capturing her thoughts and emotions in words. This expansiveness might be the reason why some of her poems appear abstract, experimental, and complex.

For example, the titled poem ‘The Journey of Mars’ is composed of 122 lines, making it one of her longest and most complex works. However, it carries a profound message and vision about human migration, their struggles, suffering, torment, loss, and hope, as well as the intersection of science and spirituality. In this poem, she envisions a settlement of human beings on the red soil of Mars. Despite all the scientific advancements and human motivations for settling on Mars, she raises thought-provoking questions in her lines:

“Today, I can’t express all those feelings of sorrow and joy!
I’ve come to realize that I can’t breathe Earth’s air,
And you also couldn’t breathe the air with the atoms that are embedded in the Earth.
For what purpose did all of this happen?
And today, I can’t speak about the End of All,
Nor can you ignore your infinite desires and ambitions.
It’s because you are so far away on Mars”

Poems such as ‘Sumnima from Benilong,’ ‘Kayara – My Mother,’ ‘This Profound Identity as a Woman,’ ‘Sanu, You Couldn’t Be a Widow,’ ‘Poem of Sex,’ ‘She, Gargi, and Helen,’ ‘Daughter of Nepal,’ ‘Love of a Mother,’ ‘Women,’ and others are illuminated by her deep awareness of womanhood, women’s dignity, and women’s empowerment.

Sima Roshi is not only a poet but also a storyteller. She has previously published a story collection titled ‘Yek Arko Sapana’ and a poetry collection named ‘AkcharkaDhadkanharu’ in Nepal nearly 20 years ago. Currently residing in Sydney, she actively contributes to Nepali literature by serving as the President of NAI Academy in Australia. Readers can eagerly anticipate her forthcoming creative endeavours, whether in prose or verse.

Book Title: Mangalgrahako Yatra [English Translated Title:The Journey of Mars’]
Author: Sima Roshi Acharya
Language: Nepali
Genre: Poem Collection
Publisher: Purnaprakash Nepal Yatri Study and Research Centre, Kathmandu
Publised Year: 2021 AD
Price: AUD $10, NRs 400
Press: AbritiPress, Kathmandu
Pages: 174

Some noteworthy poems within the collection include “Time River,” “Hills,” “Morning,” “Disease,” “Path,” “Service,” “Thunder,” “Friendship,” “Trees,” “Rice Plantation,” “Daughter,” “Songs,” “Palm’s Lines,” “Dishonesty,” “Language of Poem,” “Life’s Wave,” “Stars,” “Cloud’s Art,” “Development? Identity,” “Teachers,” “Sea,” “City,” “Gift,” “Labour,” “Wall,” “Some Questions,” and “Heart.”

The collection derives its title from one of the poems, “Jeewanka Tarang,” which translates to “Waves of Life” in English. This particular poem beautifully interweaves both romantic and philosophical elements. Tiwari employs symbols and metaphors such as blossoming flowers, fragrances, songs, music, and smiles. She acknowledges life’s challenges but yearns for a love that is vibrant and unwavering. Moreover, she aspires to immerse herself in the highs and lows that life bestows, akin to riding the waves.

Tiwari’s poems serve as a medium for expressing her emotions and perspectives on life, drawing from her experiences in both Australia and Nepal. In “Time River,” she draws parallels between the nature of life, time, and a river, all of which share an unceasing, unstoppable flow. “Disease” delves into the paradox of our existence—how we inhabit our bodies around the clock yet often remain oblivious to the diseases that silently infiltrate and undermine our health.

In essence, this collection embodies Mamata Tiwari’s persona—marked by simplicity and a commitment to serving community. Many Nepali individuals residing in Australia, with an interest in Nepali literature, may recognize her as the President of the International Nepali Literature Society – NSW Chapter. Given her position and experience, we can anticipate further contributions from her in the realm of literature as a poet.

Key facts:

Book Title: Jeewanka Tarang [English Translated Title: Waves of Life]
Author: Mamata Tiwari
Language: Nepali
Genre: Poem Collection
Publisher: Chakrapani Sumitradevi Trust Nepal
Publised Year: 2019 AD
Price: AUD $6, NRs 100
Press: Naya Nepal Press, Kathmandu
Pages: 40

Translated as “Sydney Dream” in English, the title itself offers a glimpse into the thematic essence of the story. The cover art portrays a spirited young woman standing against the backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the cool ocean breeze playing with her hair as twilight casts a warm glow. This evocative image immediately entices any curious reader to delve into its pages.

The narrative follows the journey of Sristi, a young woman, through 16 meticulously crafted chapters. From the outset, the novella captivates with its intriguing plot and artistic expression, holding the reader’s attention until the very last word. Sristi’s path becomes our own as we experience her every emotion and accompany her on her voyage.

As a college student, the reader navigates vibrant Sydney locales like Circular Quay, the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Tower, Town Hall, and train stations. Amidst the spectacular urban scenery, poignant moments arise as Sristi reminisces about her family and home in Nepal, which makes readers emotional.

A perceptive and empathetic protagonist, Sristi introduces us to the struggles of Nepali families and the challenges faced by students in Sydney. The narrative delves into complex societal issues including family breakdowns, adultery, sex work, exploitation, relationships, and friendships.

The narrative also explores the passionate love, as the reader joins Sristi on a journey of pain, conflict, and uncertainty. Through poetry, she finds solace and healing for wounds inflicted by so-called friends and lovers who were left behind at critical junctures.

In moments of uncertainty, the reader witnesses the ramifications of impulsive decisions, such as marrying someone significantly older and established. Sristi endures heart-wrenching pain and trauma due to marital rape and domestic violence, shedding light on these distressing yet crucial issues.

Take a copy of Sydney Sapana and immerse yourself in Sristi’s journey. It takes you on an engaging exploration of landscapes ranging from Brisbane to Melbourne, leaving you in imagination.

Without revealing the entirety of the story, I wholeheartedly encourage you to acquire a copy of Sydney Sapana and immerse yourself in Sristi’s journey. This narrative takes you on an engaging exploration of landscapes ranging from Brisbane to Melbourne, leaving you in imagination.

The author cleverly weaves magic into every chapter through vivid descriptions, well-timed thrills, and unexpected twists. The story flows like the Yarra River—a reflection of women’s nature: tranquil, serene, at times wild and unpredictable, but always moving forward. It would not be surprising to see this novelette adapted into a movie one day.

Congratulations and best wishes to Sanu, the author, for your upcoming literary endeavors.

Key facts: 

Book Title: Sydney Sapana (English Translation: Sydney Dream)
Author: Sanu Ghimire Jyotsana
Language: Nepali
Genre: Novel
Publisher: Sangrila Books, Kathmandu, Nepal
Published Year: 2075 BS
Price: NRs 295.00
Pages: 160

The book is thoughtfully structured with 12 chapters, beginning with the childhood memories of Om Dhungel. The chapter titled ‘Om Prakash had passed!’ successfully captures significant childhood and family incidents, such as his first encounter with an English word, ‘picnic,’ his desire to enrol in school and his experience as one of 14 children. Additionally, the chapter provides insights into the socio-economic context of Bhutanese people of Nepali heritage living in the southern part of Bhutan.

The second chapter, ‘At His Majesty’s Pleasure,’ intriguingly recounts Om’s meetings with the Bhutanese king, Jigme Singye Wanchuck, and the profound influence the king had on Om’s upbringing and dedication to nation-building. As a high school student, Om aspired to serve the country as an engineer, following the advice of his head teacher and the wishes of the king. Eventually, he achieved his goal and became an engineer.

The third chapter, ‘Love and Work in Thimphu,’ delves into Om’s love story and inter-caste marriage with Saroja. It also explores his work as the head of Planning and Development in the Telecommunications Department, shedding light on social-economic discrimination, civil service hierarchy, and authoritarian politics in Bhutan. Om shares the joy of his daughter’s birth while foreshadowing the looming darkness that would soon impact his life and the lives of many other Southern Bhutanese.

In the fourth chapter, ‘Darkness Falls on Bhutan,’ Om recounts the conspiracy and atrocities orchestrated by the state against Nepali heritage Bhutanese living in Southern Bhutan. He exposes the cover-up of ethnic cleansing in front of the international community and vividly describes the indiscriminate torture, looting, rape, and forced expulsion endured by innocent individuals. He also shares his father’s experience of torture, which deeply affected him, and his family, leading him to flee from the country he loved and where he had hoped to raise his family and children.

The fifth chapter, ‘A Broken House, New Foundation,’ presents heart-wrenching stories of Bhutanese refugees in camps in Jhapa, as well as Om’s personal struggles in Kathmandu. He reflects on his involvement in advocacy and media work, his role in the Bhutan Review and the Human Rights Organization of Bhutan (HUROB), and the international attention they drew to the plight of life in the camps. This chapter also explores Om’s difficult decision to choose between his attachment to the Bhutanese refugee movement for repatriation and his personal opportunity for development and growth. Ultimately, he chose to pursue an MBA and left his family to study in Australia.

Chapter six, titled ‘There is Smriti,’ delves into Om’s struggles in Australia. He shares his experiences of finding accommodation, securing a job, and earning money to pay for university tuition. The chapter touches upon navigating local services, establishing connections with local leaders and community organizations, and resonates with the struggles and hardships faced by newly arrived students and migrants. Om finally reunited with his wife and daughter.

‘The Three of Us’–Chapter seven–showcases the expansion of Om’s personal story, as he is no longer alone in Australia but now has his wife Saroja and daughter Smriti by his side. The chapter provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by a family balancing work and personal aspirations. It offers insights into the changing circumstances in the refugee camps and international support in Nepal. Om recalls the establishment of the Association of Bhutanese in Australia (ABA) in 2007, coinciding with the US announcement to accept 50,000 Bhutanese refugees for reintegration and settlement in Western countries. Australia followed suit.

The eighth chapter, ‘Thank You, Australia,’ focuses on the successful settlement journey of Om and the newly arrived Bhutanese community in Blacktown and its surrounding areas. The chapter highlights the initiatives undertaken by ABA to support newly arrived Bhutanese under the Australian Humanitarian Programs. Om explains on the ABA model for refugee settlement, emphasizing sustainability, leadership development, and the importance of fostering independence within the community.

In chapter nine, ‘From Corporation to Community,’ Om shares the highlights of his career, including working as a manager at Telstra, joining the boards of SydWest Multicultural Services, MTC and Settlement Services International, and receiving an offer to become the CEO of SEVA International. Over time, Om found himself overwhelmed with responsibilities, prompting him to reflect and reconsider his priorities. He explains why he made the decision to leave his well-paid job at Telstra and dedicate himself full-time to community work.

Chapter ten, ‘Beyond Charity: Rethinking Refugee Settlement,’ analyses prevalent models for refugee settlement services in Australia and other parts of the world. Drawing on his experience with ABA, service providers, and refugees from various countries, Om proposes a refugee settlement model that emphasizes community contribution in settlement process of newly arrived community, volunteer work, and government funding model to enable the community leaders, community groups and newly arrived community members to collaborate together for the common settlement outcome. On this, settlement services providers could play a key role in facilitation.

‘A Blacktown Boy’ is chapter eleven, where Om cites successful examples of multicultural communities in Blacktown coming together to fight against COVID-19 and promote vaccination programs. He proposes that focusing on common ground should take precedence over differences, with individual cultural identities enriching the common Australian culture and values.

The reader may sense that the book serves as not only a memoir but also a tribute to the people and experiences that have shaped Om’s life. He expresses deep gratitude to everyone he has encountered in his journey.

In the final chapter, Om reflects on his life journey from Lamidara, Bhutan, to Blacktown, Australia, and the challenges faced by the Bhutanese community that arrived through the Humanitarian Settlement Program. Although he shares the sad moment of his father’s passing during the COVID-19 restrictions in Blacktown, he expresses satisfaction, stating that his father had a good life and a good death. Om also expresses a sense of fulfillment in being able to reunite with his family and relatives and create a happy and settled life in Australia.

Throughout the memoir, the reader may sense that the book serves as not only a memoir but also a tribute to the people and experiences that have shaped Om’s life. He expresses deep gratitude to everyone he has encountered in his journey. The memoir is written in standard English, making it easy and engaging to read. Co-author James Button’s contribution to the book is commendable, and the foreword by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese adds an extra touch of distinction. In the foreword, the Prime Minister states ‘…Om had to leave his homeland, the one positive is that he chose us. Thanks to that choice, what you hold in your hands is a great Australian story.’

Indeed, Om’s story is an Australian story–born and raised in Bhutan, connected to India and Nepal, and now living in Australia. He proudly declares, “I am a Bhutanese Australian of Nepali heritage, a son, husband, brother, and father, a community advocate in Western Sydney, and a resident of Blacktown. That’s my identity, my story, my blended life in Blacktown.”

This captures the essence of Om’s memoir, which leaves readers with a sense of relief, positivity, and gratitude.

Information:

Book Title: Bhutan to Blacktown
Author: Om Dhungel with James Button
Language: English
Genre: Memoir
Publisher: A New South Book, New South Publishing, University of New South Wales Press LTD. AUSTRALIA
Published Year: 2023
Price:  $32.99
Pages: 276

Saurav Kiran Shrestha lives in Sydney, Australia. He can be reached at sauravkiran@gmail.com

Throughout the collection, Sharma vividly portrays his attachment and profound love for his home country, Nepal, from where he has migrated. Poems such as ‘Country inside Me’, ‘People Who Beg for Vote’, Eyes, ‘ In Search of Country’, and ‘Love Taught by Country’ poignantly convey the notion that migrants do not completely leave their country behind, as commonly believed. Instead, Sharma argues that they carry the entirety of their country in their hearts, using symbols to illustrate how even a mound of soil in a foreign land can remind them of the mountains in their homeland.

The sentiments for migrants are palpable throughout the collection, with Sharma’s poem ‘Individuals Like Me’ vividly depicting the dire situation of youths who have left their country in pursuit of an uncertain future in foreign lands. He portrays their pain, struggles, worries, and uncertainties in the name of hope.

Some of the poems in the collection delve into philosophical themes as Sharma searches for the meaning of life. In ‘Address’, he presents convincing reasons to argue that a person does not hold a fixed address. In ‘Shape’, he expresses his desire to take a form that does not require policing, modification, or undergoing pain or suffering inflicted by others to fit in. Another poem, ‘Light and Shade’, shares his hopeful perspective and lessons learned.

One of the representing verses from the poem ‘Heat of Fire’ reads:

“Those who made me walk on fire,

I have learnt from them,

Walking on fire means

Winning over darkness.”

To sum up, ‘Sambedanako Aakar’ is a thought-provoking collection of Nepali poems by Maheshwar Sharma that delves into themes of love for one’s home country, the struggles of migrants, and philosophical reflections on life. Sharma’s evocative language and deep emotions make this collection a compelling read for poetry enthusiasts.

Info

Book Title: Sambedanako Aakar 

Author: Maheshwar Sharma

Language: Nepali

Genre: Poetry

Publisher: BN Pustak Sansar P.LTD, Kathmandu, Nepal

Published Year: 2097 BS (2022)

Price: NRs 200

Pages: 84

Saurav Kiran Shrestha lives in Sydney, Australia.

sauravkiran@gmail.com