Closing my eyes - By Meenali Gulati

Written By: Meenali Gulati

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Meenali Gulati presents "Closing my eyes," a thought-provoking poem entered into the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece explores the contrast between the tranquil world of dreams and the harsh realities of life. Through vivid imagery and powerful language, Gulati invites readers to reflect on societal challenges and the potential for transformative leadership.

About the Work

"Closing my eyes" delves into the stark contrast between a peaceful dream world and a reality fraught with societal issues. Gulati's eloquent use of imagery highlights themes of hope and disillusionment, emphasizing a longing for genuine leadership and societal change. The poem's reflective tone challenges readers to consider the impact of social divisions and the urgent need for unity and integrity.

Closing my eyes

Original Submission by Meenali Gulati

Closing my eyes

Closing my eyes, I take a deep breath

find myself escaping into a peaceful world

children playing,studying,sleeping and working

eating,laughing,climbing,coding and creating!

It is so visionary and breath-taking

That I often forget its just my dream!

Sprinkling gush of water on my face

I wake up to the harsh reality around me,

Dying children and protesting youth

Who are pleading to gain accountability!

Reality is sharp,crude and unjust

But my vision is still pure and built on trust.

I still believe good leaders will emerge

Once again to build a democratic civil society!

A world where gender doesn’t divide

Caste system has no hold,

Religions do not dis-integrate

And socialism over powers communalism!

Falling asleep and closing my eyes at peace

Is only to pray to end this unrest.

Broken promises,price inflated

Health care so impossible to reach!

Perpetrators harming human diginity

Even nature protesting by not responding to our greed,

Our environment, education and our generation

Is facing world war both outside and within!

Money,politics or treaties for world peace

cannot make our nation a super-power.

We need responsible humane individuals

Who can lead without any greed or dictorial power!

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices and stories across the globe. It provides a platform for writers to share their unique perspectives through poetry and creative writing, encouraging dialogue and reflection on contemporary issues.

Thank you, Meenali Gulati, for your contribution to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with your poem "Closing my eyes." Your work offers a poignant exploration of dreams versus reality, provoking thought and reflection. We appreciate your participation and look forward to your future submissions.

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.