Coming Home - By Bhavya Jayabharathwaj

Written By: Bhavya Jayabharathwaj

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Bhavya Jayabharathwaj invites us into a world of warmth and familial intimacy with her poem, "Coming Home." As an entry in the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece reflects the simplicity and beauty of everyday life. Capturing the essence of home through vivid imagery and tender moments, Bhavya's work resonates with anyone who cherishes the small yet significant routines that bind us together.

About the Work

"Coming Home" beautifully encapsulates the essence of a bustling household. Through rich imagery and sensory details, Bhavya Jayabharathwaj paints a picture of familial love and daily routines. The poem's mood is warm and nostalgic, evoking a sense of belonging and comfort. The interplay of sounds, scents, and sights creates a tapestry of domestic life, celebrating the everyday moments that transform a house into a home.

Coming Home

Original Submission by Bhavya Jayabharathwaj

Sunlight trembles

on the window glass.

The curtains

are rarely drawn.

Mornings begin

in voices,

in barking,

in the scrape and shuffle

of people already awake.

There is always

the smell of wet soil

from watered plants,

incense and burning oil,

amma's banana cake

rising from the oven.

Someone is hunting

for snacks—

trying to get to them

before appa does,

or amma hides them away.

Paaty cuddles Sheera

and feeds her rice.

Thatha's mouse clicks

all day

as he writes his verses.

Amma calls out,

“Where’s my phone?”—

already sounding

as if we took it.

Rain shatters on the balcony railing.

Lightning splits the sky.

We sit watching,

our puppy asleep at amma's feet,

through the monsoon.

Pastel walls.

Wooden shelves.

Books, stray keepsakes,

photographs holding still

what did not.

And somehow,

this house fits

the seven of us

just well enough

to become

home.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the art of words. It features diverse voices from around the world, showcasing poetry and creative writing that inspire, challenge, and connect. This competition serves as a platform for writers to share their unique perspectives and stories with a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bhavya Jayabharathwaj for her beautiful poem, "Coming Home." Her contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches our understanding of home and family. Thank you, Bhavya, for sharing your touching reflections with us.

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.