New York Writers Workshop, Himalayan Literature Festival to kick off from May 23 in Kathmandu

KATHMANDU: The New York Writers Workshop is gearing up for an eagerly awaited event: the Kathmandu workshop, followed by the Himalayan Literature Festival (HLF), in partnership with White Lotus Book Shop. Kicking off on May 23 and extending through May 28, this inaugural edition of the festival promises an immersive experience for bookworms, writers, and literary aficionados alike.

The festival boasts an enticing lineup of acclaimed authors, poets, and speakers from across the globe. Attendees can anticipate lively panel discussions, captivating readings, insightful workshops, and stimulating conversations spanning a diverse array of literary themes.

“We are thrilled to start Himalayan Literature Festival this year,” said Yuyutsu RD Sharma, the curator of the festival. “Our goal is to create a platform that not only celebrates literature but also fosters a sense of community and inspires creativity.”

Among the highlights, Ken Subedi will moderate a panel discussion featuring esteemed writers Yubaraj Ghimire, Narayan Wagle, Koshraj Koirala, Shakuntala Joshi, and Deepak Sapkota, exploring “The Space of Nepali Literature in Nepali Media.” Additionally, Akhanda Bhandari’s Bora will be dissected alongside discussions on photography, fiction, translation, poetry, and media writing. Furthermore, Nepali photographer Bikas Rauniar will engage in dialogue with American photographer Julie Williams-Krishnan on the nuances of art photography. Notably, Tony Barnstone will lead a session on translation, joined by speakers Santhan Haridasan, Ravi Shankar, Yuyutsu Sharma, Ken Subedi, Xiao Xiao, and Jami Proctor Xu.

In addition to the main events, the festival will offer an array of activities including panel discussions, book signings, launches, and interactive sessions with authors spanning various genres.

“We believe that literature has the power to connect people and ignite imaginations,” added Sharma. “Through workshop and Himalayan Literature Festival, we aim to spark meaningful conversations, showcase diverse voices, and celebrate the magic of words.”

The festival will take place at Kathmandu Guest House, a vibrant hub for cultural events in Thamel, Kathmandu. Tickets will be available for purchase online at https://hlf.whitelotusbookshop.com/ and at the entrances during the event.