Tag Archives: Australia

Celebrating 15 Years of Blogging with You All

Hey everyone! 🎉

Wow — I can hardly believe it’s been 15 years of storytelling, culture-sharing, travel adventures, food experiments, motherhood moments, and little parenting wins here at Nepaliaustralian. What started as “just something to do” has become a corner of the internet that means a whole lot to me — and that’s all thanks to you.

A quick look back

For those who are newer here, here’s a peek at how this journey has unfolded:

  • I’m M, a Nepali-born IT Business Analyst by day, globetrotter at heart, a writer for the soul, and very much in love with bridging the cultures of “East” and “West” through stories, recipes, traditions, and family life
  • Nepaliaustralian isn’t just about me — it’s about all of us who know what it’s like to grow up in one culture and live in another, who miss home sometimes, who love traditions, who try cooking a dish from back home and find joy in small things like language, festivals, or simply sharing memories.

Where we are now — thanks to YOU

As of just over a year ago (when the blog turned 13), here’s what we had reached:

  • 1,109 posts
  • 81 pages
  • Over 10,700 comments (that’s you chiming in ❤️)
  • About 2.5 million page views
  • Some 1.38 million readers spanning 230 countries

And today, as we celebrate 15 years, I’m proud to see how far we’ve come — more stories, more recipes, more journeys, more words. Your support has carried this blog through all of it.

What it’s meant to me

This space has been:

  • My way to keep the language and culture alive — whether it’s Nepali or Nepal Bhasa.
  • A way to explore marriage, family, parenting, identity — the awkward bits, the surprising bits, and the really beautiful bits.
  • A reminder that even thousands of kilometres away, your stories, your love, your feedback, your comments matter.

There have been days when I wasn’t sure who was reading, or whether it would “amount to anything,” but then someone would leave a comment about missing home, or cooking a recipe you found here, or learning a word you forgot — and it’d remind me why I started.

Thank You

I owe so much to:

  • You, dear readers — for sticking with me, for reading the long posts, for sharing, for correcting me, for making suggestions, for engaging.
  • Family & friends — for patience when I disappeared on trips or got carried away writing or editing.
  • Guest writers/contributors — whose voices have enriched this place so much.
  • Every person who’s ever liked, shared, sewn, cooked, translated, messaged, snapped, or just quietly nodded along.

Without you, there is no Nepaliaustralian.

Looking ahead

Because 15 years is real, and I’m excited for what’s next:

  • More travel stories — nearer, farther, unknown places waiting.
  • More deep dives into culture, language, tradition — especially around Newari, Nepali, festivals.
  • More family stories — parenting, raising kids between homes, between cultures.
  • More recipes (of course!) and food adventures because there’s always a flavour of home to explore.
  • More connection — I hope to hear more from you: your stories, your memories, your hopes, your favourite posts, and what you want to see more of.

Here’s to 15 years. Here’s to all the words we’ve shared and will share. Here’s to you — because none of this is possible without you.

Thank you for reading, for commenting, for being here. You’re the heart of Nepaliaustralian.

With love and gratitude,

M
From Nepaliaustralian
XOXO

Exploring Mona Hobart: A Unique Adventure in Tasmania

Our recent trip to Tasmania was an incredible journey filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. A standout highlight was our visit to the iconic Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart. Having heard so many glowing reviews, we arrived with high expectations, and MONA delivered a fascinating, one-of-a-kind experience for the whole family—albeit with a few surprises along the way!

From the outside, MONA appears deceptively modest, with its sleek, modern, minimalist façade giving no indication of the vast world hidden beneath. Once inside, we were awestruck by the scale of the underground galleries. Spread across multiple levels, the museum feels like a labyrinth of creativity, with dark, winding pathways leading to a treasure trove of thought-provoking, boundary-pushing art.

The exhibits themselves were a mix of the strange, the beautiful, and the deeply intriguing. One of the standout installations was the “Pulse Room,” a mesmerizing display of hanging light bulbs that pulse in time with the heartbeat of the participants. It was a captivating way to blend art and human connection. Another unforgettable piece was the “Cloaca Professional” (often referred to as the “poo machine”)—a bizarre but oddly fascinating work that mimics the human digestive process. While it’s not for the faint-hearted, it certainly sparked some animated conversations with the kids, who were equal parts amused and bewildered!

The “Waterfall” installation, which displays falling water droplets spelling out words and phrases, was another crowd favourite. It was stunning to watch and left us marveling at the creativity and technology behind it. We also explored the interactive “O” device, which provides in-depth information about each artwork, allowing us to choose whether to dive deeper into the meaning of the pieces or simply appreciate them at face value.

Some exhibits, however, weren’t child-friendly due to mature or confronting themes. As parents, we made sure to guide our kids carefully and chose areas that felt suitable for them. Despite these limitations, MONA did an excellent job of offering an educational experience. Our children were surprisingly engaged, especially with the interactive features and the museum’s clever use of technology, like the augmented reality elements that added layers to the experience.

Once we were ready for a break, the outdoor areas provided the perfect opportunity to unwind. The kids, who had grown a bit restless indoors, were thrilled to discover the giant trampoline outside. They bounced with endless energy under the open sky, surrounded by MONA’s quirky sculptures and serene gardens. The outdoor spaces had a unique vibe, blending relaxation with a sense of playful exploration.

The museum’s practical features also enhanced the visit. Lockers to store our belongings made navigating the galleries much easier, and the staff were friendly and accommodating. However, we did find the food options somewhat underwhelming. While the on-site cafes had a decent selection, we expected something more creative and varied to match the museum’s bold reputation.

Admission was AUD 35 for adults, with free entry for children under 18, which we found to be excellent value considering the scale and uniqueness of the experience.

Overall, MONA was an unforgettable experience that added a distinct and unexpected flavour to our Tasmania trip. The museum’s blend of art, creativity, and innovation made for a truly memorable visit, while the outdoor play areas were a major highlight for the kids. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just someone looking for a unique adventure, MONA offers something for everyone—so long as you embrace the unexpected.

If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania, MONA should definitely be on your list. Just be prepared to balance the visit between family fun and exploring the art, and you’ll have an amazing time!

Please follow me on Instagram! and Please follow me on TikTok to stay updated on my adventures.

Take care,

M from Nepaliaustralian
XOXO

Vivid Nights in Sydney – Lights, Laughs & City Love

If you’re in Sydney and haven’t experienced Vivid Sydney 2025 yet, you’re missing out on something truly special. I went with my friend the other night, and it was an unforgettable way to see our city in a whole new light—literally.

Kicking off our night at Circular Quay with the Opera House lit up by David McDiarmid’s cool “Kiss of Light” projections—talk about celebrating love and inclusion! Plus, the Harbour Bridge looked amazing nearby, making it the perfect start to our adventure.

From there, we hopped on a ferry to Barangaroo, exploring the installations along the way. Barangaroo Reserve was a highlight, boasting a concentration of light features that felt like stepping into a dream. The interactive displays and immersive experiences made it a standout spot.

We continued our journey through Darling Harbour, where the water reflected the dazzling lights, creating a mesmerising scene. The atmosphere was electric, with live performances and a buzz of excitement in the air.

This year’s theme, “Dream”, invites everyone to explore the boundaries between reality and imagination. With over 42 large-scale projections and installations spread across five festival zones—including The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Goods Line, and Martin Place—there’s something to captivate every visitor.

Notably, the Light Walk is completely free, making it accessible for all to enjoy the stunning displays after 6pm each night.

Vivid Sydney 2025 runs until Saturday, June 14, so there’s still time to immerse yourself in this luminous celebration. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s creativity and community spirit.

So grab a family or friends, bundle up, and let the lights guide your night.

Note: For more details on installations, food options, and event schedules, check out the official Vivid Sydney website.

M from Nepaliaustralian

XOXO

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Happy Nepali Mother’s Day!

Today my heart feels a little heavier, missing my beautiful mum who is far away from me. Even though distance separates us, the love and gratitude I have for her only grows stronger with each passing day. Mum, thank you for everything you have done — your love, your sacrifices, your prayers — they have shaped my life in ways words can’t fully express. I wish I could be there to celebrate this special day with you in person.

In Nepal, Mother’s Day is known as “Aama ko Mukh Herne Din”, which translates to “the day to see mother’s face.” It is a day to honour and show appreciation to our mothers. Children visit their mums, offer gifts, sweets, and heartfelt blessings. Traditionally, we prepare a special ceremony called Sagun, where symbolic food items such as yoghurt, fruits, eggs, and sweets are offered to the mother as a way of wishing her good fortune, health, and happiness.

If your mum is nearby, give her a warm hug today. If she’s far away, like mine, take a moment to call her, video chat, or simply send her love across the miles. Our mums deserve to feel our gratitude not just today, but every day.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful mothers! You are truly a blessing.

M from Nepaliaustralian

XOXO

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Holi: The Festival of Colours and Its Significance

Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, is one of the most vibrant and joyous celebrations in Hindu culture. It marks the arrival of spring, the victory of good over evil, and a time of unity, laughter, and togetherness. People play with colours (abir), throw water balloons, and enjoy traditional sweets and drinks while dancing to festive music.

The Significance of Holi

Holi is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It celebrates the legend of Prahlad and Holika, symbolising the triumph of devotion and righteousness over arrogance and evil. The festival also honours Lord Krishna’s playful tradition of smearing colours on Radha and the gopis, which inspired the modern-day celebrations.

Holi in Newar Culture

In Newar communities, Holi is celebrated with unique traditions that blend Hindu and Buddhist influences. The festival is known as “Sithi Nakha” in some places and is a time for social gatherings and merrymaking. The celebration in Kathmandu starts a week before the main day, with the installation of the ceremonial Chir (a bamboo pole decorated with colourful cloths) at Basantapur Durbar Square. This represents the playful spirit of Holi and is later burned in a symbolic farewell to winter.

Newars celebrate Holi with “Abiraya”, a tradition of applying abir (coloured powder) as a blessing and mark of love. Families and friends gather to enjoy traditional sweets like yomari and sel roti, while children and youth play with water and colours in the streets.

While Holi in Terai and India is celebrated a day later, in Kathmandu and other hilly regions, it falls on Fagu Purnima. The festival brings people of all backgrounds together, reinforcing harmony and joy.

A Celebration of Unity and Culture

Holi is more than just a festival of colours—it is a celebration of life, love, and cultural heritage. Whether through throwing abir, sharing sweets, or coming together with loved ones, it reminds us to spread happiness and positivity.

Here in Australia, we celebrated Holi with vibrant colours, laughter, and joy, bringing together friends and neighbours for a truly unforgettable day. We danced to festive music, splashed colours on each other, and embraced the spirit of togetherness. The kids had an absolute blast, running around with water balloons and bright abir, their smiles reflecting the happiness of the festival. It was a day filled with fun, laughter, and beautiful memories, reminding us that no matter where we are, the spirit of Holi brings people closer.

Wishing everyone a joyous and colourful Holi!

Please follow me on Instagram! and Please follow me on TikTok to stay updated on my adventures.

Take care,

M from Nepaliaustralian
XOXO