BATJELENI - By Thomas Somajama Masango

Written By: Thomas Somajama Masango

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In an evocative contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Thomas Somajama Masango, writing under the name Batjeleni, presents "BATJELENI." This poem finds its place in the Poetry category, offering a profound exploration of cultural identity and heritage. Through the intricate tapestry of language, Masango invites readers to reflect on the journey of self-discovery and the power of tradition.

About the Work

"BATJELENI" is steeped in the rich cultural narratives of heritage and identity. The poem's emotive language and vivid imagery paint a landscape of tradition and self-awareness. Masango's work delves into the themes of ancestral roots, the passage of time, and the unyielding ties that bind us to our cultural past. The lyrical style and rhythmic cadence enhance the poem’s reflective and introspective mood.

Batjeleni

Original Submission by Thomas Somajama Masango

BATJELENI

Ukhamba senga kunalapho aya khona

Ukhamba aqala emuva senga kunomkhwayako

Thatheki wena ngoba unguthathekile

Tjhuguliliyani nekhambo lakho

Sewuya lapho kuya yena khona

Uthome nini ukuba Msamariya olungileko?

Uthswenywa busokana qhegu ndina!

Dukuduku zimbi iinbaba emajukujukwini

Mahlayeni mahlayeni sahlala sanzinza

Umphako awudliwa mntwana

Konakele, kumbi.

Akezi bayeza batjhwile abondlebe zikhanya ilanga

Nemabhudangweni kakghari bavele bababili

Akusibo ubutjhapha lobu kunofunileko

Ithi ingalamba irhwebe ngembeleko

Mbuso ngapha, bomakhehlana ngapha

Iimpondo zokuhlonyelwa azihlali

Ningase nitjho nithi ithuna lendoda lisendleleni

Okusalako ubuthongo bendoda busekhaya

Okusalako wephephethu akahlanakeli

Kuhlanakela esala ebandla

Ngephango yavuma ukungena ngekhwatjheni

Ngesikhwele ayisafuni ukufela ngekhwatjheni

Batjeleni imvelaphi yabo ningesabi

Batjeleni iinthakazelo zabo nanizaziko

Batjeleni nesiko lekhabo nanilaziko

Nesithambo sabo kufanele nisazi

Negido lekhabo kufanele nilazi

Amaqhegu wekhabo akadlali

Nami ngiwesaba kwamina

Bavumeleni baye ekhabo ningabaleli

Bavunuliseni isikhabo ningabadlelezeli

Ekhabo labo isango lingena ikomo nomuntu

Isango ayidliwa kulowo muzi

Abayidlako badliwa masango

Vulekani masango imbewu ibolela ngaphandle

Ngenani bosomngani

Ekhaya ngikho lapha.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices and creative expressions from around the world. This esteemed competition offers a platform for writers and poets to share their unique stories and perspectives, fostering a global community of literary enthusiasts.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Thomas Somajama Masango for sharing "BATJELENI" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices contributing to this celebration of literary artistry. Thank you for inviting us into your world of cultural exploration and introspection.

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.