Beneath the Uniform - By Karthikeyan Subramanian

Written By: Karthikeyan Subramanian

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Karthikeyan Subramanian presents a moving poetic piece titled "Beneath the Uniform" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem invites readers to explore the profound themes of sacrifice, family, and the unseen emotional battles faced by soldiers. Through powerful imagery, Subramanian crafts a narrative that goes beyond the battlefield, delving into the hearts of those who serve and their loved ones.

About the Work

"Beneath the Uniform" captures the essence of sacrifice and the emotional weight carried by soldiers and their families. The poem is rich with vivid imagery and poignant expressions that highlight the dichotomy between the valor seen by the world and the personal struggles endured privately. It is a heartfelt homage to the courage and resilience that underpin the lives of those who stand as protectors.

Beneath the uniform

Original Submission by Karthikeyan Subramanian

Beneath The Uniform

Behind every battle worn soul

Lies a mother waiting at the door,

A child with his father’s photograph,

A wife with untouched cup of tea.

They call him soldier,

I call him a wall between us and war.

Neath the medals that lie in his chest,

Lie a heart with scars and pain,

Still standing so others may live .

The earth drank all the red,

While the guns thundered the night.

He crumbled his mother’s missive

To shield his mother land from the cannons.

So when you hear the anthem rise,

For not just man who stood behind the nation’s sky,

Remember not only the lived,

But also the heart

Which thought to die .

--- Vedavarsini Karthikeyan

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of writing. It welcomes creative expressions from poets and writers worldwide, offering a stage for unique voices and compelling narratives. This competition is a testament to the power of words and their ability to inspire and connect across cultures.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Karthikeyan Subramanian for sharing "Beneath the Uniform" with us. His participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of stories that highlight the profound human experiences behind the uniform. We look forward to more of his evocative 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.