In Vienna, a Nepali classroom keeps language, culture and memory alive

In a quiet classroom at the University of Vienna, Nepali words fill the air. Students from different countries practise Nepali, Sanskrit, Limbu and Nepal Bhasa. But this is not simply a language class.

Alongside vocabulary and grammar, they learn about Nepal’s politics, society, history and literature. They write poems, sing Nepali songs, perform dances and stage plays. Sometimes, the classroom becomes a small theatre; at other times, it turns into a celebration of Nepali culture.