Behind her smile - By S. A. Dooli Sandeepa Kumarihamy Kularathna

Written By: S. A. Dooli Sandeepa Kumarihamy Kularathna

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, S. A. Dooli Sandeepa Kumarihamy Kularathna presents "Behind her smile," a poignant poetry piece. This submission explores the complexities of emotions hidden beneath a seemingly bright exterior. Through her work, Dooli Sandeepa delves into the intricate layers of personal struggle and resilience, inviting readers to look beyond the surface and understand the depth of human experience.

About the Work

"Behind her smile" is a poetic exploration of inner turmoil and resilience. The poem paints vivid imagery of a battle waged behind a smile, using metaphors of light and shadow to convey emotional depth. The piece captures the silent screams of pain and the struggle against overwhelming fears, all while maintaining a facade of calm for the outside world. It offers a powerful message about the courage it takes to face internal battles.

Behind her smile

Original Submission by S. A. Dooli Sandeepa Kumarihamy Kularathna

Behind her smile

She smiles at the world like sunrays,

too bright it might burn their eyes.

And so they call her “perfectly okay.”

Yet hiding behind the delicate flower

is a world war unfolding its wings,

without knowing the way to peace.

In her mind, crystals keep falling like rain,

each drop silently screaming the pain.

And the pain begins

when the three shadows reach for her soul;

one keeps whispering fears that never rest,

one keeps dragging her into a silence that shouts,

one keeps playing with her weakness with no mercy.

In front of the battlefield, behind the iron bars,

another shadow stays still,

watching her break slowly,

like petals falling from a flower.

She knows it’s the shield,

yet it can’t break the cage.

She keeps drowning and drowning,

yet she keeps her smile alive.

Not to calm the battle,

but to give the world her flame.

Dooli Sandeepa

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform for artists worldwide to showcase their literary talents. It celebrates creativity and expression, providing a space for poets and writers to share their unique voices and stories with an international audience. The competition fosters a community of passionate creators, each contributing to the rich tapestry of global literary culture.

We extend our gratitude to S. A. Dooli Sandeepa Kumarihamy Kularathna for her insightful submission, "Behind her smile," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work captures the essence of emotional resilience and personal struggle, offering readers a profound glimpse into the complexities of the human spirit. Thank you for sharing your voice and creativity with us.

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.