Beneath the Dust - By Bhavya Jayabharathwaj

Written By: Bhavya Jayabharathwaj

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Bhavya Jayabharathwaj, with her evocative poem "Beneath the Dust," participates in the poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work captures the solemnity and emotional depth of remembrance and familial bonds. Through this poignant piece, Bhavya invites readers to reflect on the themes of loss and memory, wrapped in the cultural tapestry of traditional rituals.

About the Work

"Beneath the Dust" is a deeply moving exploration of grief and memory. Bhavya Jayabharathwaj employs vivid imagery and a reflective tone to convey the profound emotions experienced during familial rites. The poem's sincere portrayal of loss is underscored by the rich cultural symbols and traditions, creating a tapestry of love, remembrance, and enduring connection.

Beneath the Dust

Original Submission by Bhavya Jayabharathwaj

The chorus

of sacred chants

curls upward

with the smoke of the fire.

I rarely see my relatives

dressed in ironed veshtis

and silk madisaars.

I read their faces—

once eager

to meet mine

after years—

now, when they turn to me,

grief reaches first.

Our eyes rest

on the grey ash

ringed with brick.

It's been a year.

We shower petals

over the garlanded kalasham,

gently,

as though it were still him.

As we circle it,

our eyes blurred with tears,

his face appears—

smiling

behind jasmine and glass.

Kolams in white and brown

pattern the floor

and cling to our feet

as we bend.

Tears spill

and do not stop.

We do not ask them to.

I want to tell him

so much.

Most of all—

that I love him,

that I miss him.

When that familiar smile

lights our grief,

I remember:

he lived.

He lived.

And as I catch

the glint of embers

beneath the dust,

I feel

he knows.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that celebrates literary creativity across the globe. Poets and writers from various backgrounds come together to share their unique voices and perspectives, enriching the world of literature with diverse themes and styles.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bhavya Jayabharathwaj for her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her touching poem "Beneath the Dust." Her contribution adds a layer of depth and emotion to the competition, reminding us of the power of poetry to heal and connect.

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.