Beneath the uniform - By Vedavarsini Karthikeyan

Written By: Vedavarsini Karthikeyan

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Vedavarsini Karthikeyan presents "Beneath the uniform," a moving piece of poetry that delves into the emotional lives of soldiers and their families. Submitted to the prestigious Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work captures the poignant sacrifices behind the facade of a soldier’s uniform. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt sentiment, Vedavarsini offers a glimpse into the personal and collective costs of war.

About the Work

"Beneath the uniform" conjures a heartfelt tapestry of sacrifice and love, exploring the hidden emotional burdens carried by soldiers. The poem’s evocative imagery reveals the personal sacrifices made by not just the soldiers, but their families left behind. Through powerful metaphors and stirring language, Vedavarsini Karthikeyan paints a vivid picture of the human cost of war, encouraging readers to reflect on the true meaning of bravery and sacrifice.

Beneath the uniform

Original Submission by Vedavarsini Karthikeyan

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 showcases a diverse range of voices and literary expressions from around the world. Celebrating creativity and talent, the competition provides a platform for writers and poets to share their unique perspectives and stories with an international audience.

Thank you, Vedavarsini Karthikeyan, for sharing your profound poem, "Beneath the uniform," with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the literary tapestry of this event, offering readers a powerful insight into the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families.

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.