Because you are a Girl - By Garima Jain

Written By: GarimaJain

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Garima Jain presents a poignant piece titled "Because you are a Girl" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This powerful poem delves into the societal pressures and stereotypes imposed on girls and women, highlighting the challenges they face simply due to their gender. The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition is a platform that celebrates diverse voices and narratives, and Garima's work brings forth an important dialogue on gender equality and empowerment.

About the Work

Garima Jain's "Because you are a Girl" captures the essence of the struggles that women encounter in a patriarchal society. The poem's tone is both assertive and reflective, as it challenges the conventions that restrict women's autonomy. Through vivid imagery and compelling repetition, Garima emphasizes the need for women to stand up against societal injustices and embrace their true potential. Her words resonate with a call for courage and change, encouraging readers to question and dismantle the outdated norms.

Because you are a Girl

Original Submission by GarimaJain

Because you are a Girl

You can’t study further

Because you are a girl

You can study further but you cannot marry by your choice

Because you are a girl

You can marry by your choice, but you have to always adjust

Because you are a girl

You are too tall; you won’t get a suitable match

Because you are a girl

You are too bright, how will we get a brighter star beside you

Because you are a girl

You are smart, indomitable, tone yourself down

Because you are a girl

You can’t get a promotion even though you deserve it

Because others find you domineering and don’t accept

Because you are a girl

You can fail, it’s alright!

Because you are a girl

You don’t have to succeed professionally

Because you are a girl

Your main aim in life is family and how they fly high

Because you are a girl

If you think even once for yourself, you are selfish

Because you are a girl

If you try to balance your family, your work, and sometimes work takes priority,

You are a bad mom and worse wife

Because you are a girl

If you leave your job to give your whole-soul self to the family,

You are lazy and want to live off the family’s earnings without working

Because you are a girl

If you don’t completely wipe yourself out for your parents-in-law

Even when their son doesn’t,

You are the most horrible person

Because you are a girl

If you do even one small thing for your parents with your own money,

It is a criminal act

Because you are a girl

If you work and create a business with your husband,

His family applauds only your husband

Because you are a girl

If you are an anomaly as you most definitely are

Because you are a girl

You will find that there is always a reason to put you out

Because you are a girl

So stand up for yourself now,

Take a rightful stance

Because you are a girl

Have the courage to speak out against their anomalies,

Lay bare their untruths

Because you are a girl

Don’t always think of spoiling the house environment with negativity by speaking your mind,

Because the responsibility for that environment is everyone’s, not just yours

Because you are a girl

And don’t try to hide

Or dim your light

Or accept their failures as yours

Because you are a girl

For if you give in to them,

However bright your flame might be,

It will eventually splutter and fade

Because everyone told you, you were useless

Because you are a girl

And however much you may try

To enable your daughter to dream her dreams,

To believe in herself,

To fly high,

Because you were there for her,

She would follow your steps when the society tells her to,

Because she is a girl.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that celebrates the art of writing in its many forms. It provides a platform for writers and poets from around the world to share their unique stories and perspectives. The competition fosters creativity and innovation, inviting participants to explore themes that resonate with a global audience, enhancing the appreciation of literature and the written word.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Garima Jain for her moving contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. "Because you are a Girl" is an evocative reminder of the resilience and strength inherent in challenging societal norms. We appreciate Garima's courage in addressing such an important topic and look forward to seeing more of her inspiring work in the future.

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.