as easy as breathing - By Inganathi Pupuma

Written By: Inganathi Pupuma

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Inganathi Pupuma presents a touching piece titled "as easy as breathing" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative work captures the essence of familial bonds and cherished memories, weaving a tapestry of love through vivid recollections. As part of Hashtag Kalakar's esteemed competition, this poem invites readers to reflect on the simplicity and depth of loving connections.

About the Work

"as easy as breathing" paints a vivid portrait of familial love, vividly capturing moments that define a relationship through the eyes of the speaker. The poem's nostalgic tone is balanced by its heartfelt message about the simplicity and profundity of love. Through vivid imagery and a gentle narrative style, it invites the reader to ponder the beauty of connections that are both everyday and extraordinary.

as easy as breathing

Original Submission by Inganathi Pupuma

as easy as breathing

on an almost rainy kind of sunday i stand in the kitchen and ask my father to tell me about my mother.

he stands, in scrubs, a coffee cup lined with laughter in hand, thinking-

i am in tenth grade, sitting in the car, holding a green folder with all of the poetry my father wrote solely for my mother stuck inside.

his eyes are bright with the joy of his work.

i am in matric and my parents are bragging about the trip they are taking to prague where they will have so much fun without us children.

i am in first year, on the steps of university, my parents behind me, hand in hand, waving goodbye.

i am at home, in the house they built together, sitting at the dinner table with both of them at each end.

i am on the stairs, listening to them play tennis with jokes only they understand.

i am in the living room, watching my parents destroy us at thirty seconds.

i am in the car, listening to them talk about patients in a jargon i could never crack.

i am out for supper, at my mother’s favourite restaurant, and i see, from the corner of my eye, under the gentle light, my parents share a smile so soft and secret i wonder what it feels like to have someone who can move all of the oceans inside of you,

who can dance to the rhythm of your heartbeat,

whose laugh is your favourite sound

-and he says to me

take a breath

i do, deep into my lungs, then i let it out again.

that, that was how easy it was to love her

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the richness of the written word, providing a platform for writers worldwide to showcase their talents. This prestigious event highlights diverse voices in poetry and creative writing, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts.

Thank you, Inganathi Pupuma, for sharing "as easy as breathing" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poignant reflection on love and familial bonds has enriched this year's event, offering a beautiful glimpse into the power of memory and affection.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.