Centrefold - By Avika Jha

Written By: Avika Jha

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Avika Jha, writing under the pen name Centrefold, graces us with her evocative poem "Centrefold," submitted in the Poetry category for the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. This piece explores the intricate and often challenging dynamics of personal relationships and self-discovery. Through her poignant verses, Avika delves into themes of emotional resilience and the complexities of human interaction, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences.

About the Work

"Centrefold" is a profound exploration of internal dialogue and emotional turbulence. The poem captures a sense of longing and the struggle for self-identity amidst external pressures. With vivid imagery and a candid tone, Avika Jha addresses themes of vulnerability and the quest for understanding in relationships. Her style combines introspective musings with a raw emotional undercurrent, creating a tapestry of thoughts that resonate deeply with the reader.

Centrefold

Original Submission by Avika Jha

There are a bunch of debilitating arguments in my head.

I try to simplify the situation

I try to do my best.

We always go back to the same question

of this long-lasting equation

And for some reason

The solutions aren’t what we thought we had.

I’ll set a meet up

With my family physician

I’ll change myself

Like you asked.

Your deplete promises

Are mere conjunctions

To the sentences that you never act.

Your inadvertent reaction

Just makes me sad.

Gloomier each day I feel like I’m a weightage

You’re trying to drag,

Along with you on this train that stop at no station

I’m tired of being the doormat.

I polish myself

I polish my thoughts

I rehabilitate your insensitive states.

I have records.

I try to decode,

Each component of your ruthlessness

Maybe somewhere I’ll find a soft spot.

Tell me do you want this?

Ask me to just pass on,

Or ask me to cry.

Do anything you want but

At least try.

Nobody hates you

You’re their kryptonite.

My friends all say

I’m gone and I might.

Say that you hate me

Say it while looking in my eyes.

I’ll remain the same,

Argumentative, authoritative, complex and

‘Miss always over analyse’.

Say I make things all about me,

But before that show me the proof of where

you cared once, in my whole life?

The secrets that your eyes hold

Are something that I’ll never derive.

Even the cements crack open

Once exposed to water seeping inside.

My calamitous hoping

Had just died.

And I may never open up for now

But I know someday I might.

If you want, I can also lightly polish grammar while keeping your voice intact, or shape them for publication or a poetry slam.

About the Competition

Hashtag Kalakar's Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 celebrates the creative spirit by bringing together talented voices from around the world. Participants present their unique perspectives through poetry, short stories, and essays, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of contemporary literature. This esteemed competition offers a platform for writers to share their art and connect with a diverse audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Avika Jha for her compelling submission, "Centrefold," to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work not only enriches the competition but also offers profound insight into the human experience. We look forward to seeing more of her artistic endeavors 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.