Corrupted Seeds - By Vanya Dhir

Written By: Vanya Dhir

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the compelling short story "Corrupted Seeds," Vanya Dhir delves into a poignant narrative about betrayal and loss. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Vanya Dhir's work stands as a testament to the raw emotions that accompany personal turmoil. Through vivid storytelling and evocative imagery, this piece captures the essence of being caught between trust and deception, leaving readers to ponder the complexities of human relationships and inner strength.

About the Work

"Corrupted Seeds" is a narrative that unfolds with intensity and emotion, capturing the essence of betrayal and the subsequent emotional upheaval. Vanya Dhir employs a vivid literary style, immersing readers in the protagonist's tumultuous journey through a forest of memories and emotions. The story is woven with powerful imagery, reflecting the protagonist's internal conflict and the harsh realities of lost trust. Through this work, Vanya invites readers to explore themes of loss, resilience, and the search for inner peace amidst chaos.

Corrupted Seeds

Original Submission by Vanya Dhir

I ran. I ran till silence was all I could hear. My vision blurred as I staggered through the forest, my limbs shaking with exhaustion. Nothing made sense anymore. Nothing felt real anymore.

I found a place to sit, resting my back against a tree, my brain replaying memories of what had just happened.

Emotions soared inside me. Fear, coursing through me, tying knots in my stomach, followed by anger, unbearable anger. Hot tears streamed down my face as I gripped the cold soil under my palms. I’d been betrayed. I’d been betrayed by the very people I once called my own. The people I would’ve trusted with my life. I’d been betrayed.

My face went hot as I shook once again, not due to exhaustion, but due to rage.

I sowed the seeds for peace, and yet I’m the one who pays for war.

The tears streaming down my face, once silent, now turned into loud sobs as I wailed.

Pain took over me. The pain of the fight, felt by my body, and then the pain felt by me. The pain of losing a person, the pain of losing my home, the pain of losing everything, the pain of-

I stopped. Crying wouldn’t fix anything, crying wouldn’t fix a single thing.

I was back in the village. “It’s the beginning of a new age! An era of peace and liberty!” That’s what he’d said. Cheering followed the speech as he cast a grateful glance at my side, seeming to say “Thank you” and I’d smiled back.

The scene changed. I was now walking by the river. “Hurry up!!” she had said, laughing while glancing back at me, running on the grass, her hazel eyes glinting under the sun. I started running too, feeling a sense of relief I’d never felt before.

Suddenly, it was dark. I was on the battlefield once more. The moon illuminated the environment. Blood roared in my ear as realisation hit me, harder than a brick. I saw the arrow being released. I let out a cry as I rushed towards it, but I was too late, it flew past me and thud-

My eyes snapped open as I woke up with a jolt, trembling once more, my heart racing faster than ever.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated platform for writers worldwide to share their unique voices and stories. This competition welcomes diverse genres, encouraging creativity and originality. Participants from across the globe contribute to this vibrant tapestry of contemporary literature, showcasing talent and passion in poetry and prose.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Vanya Dhir for her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. "Corrupted Seeds" is a moving exploration of deep emotional landscapes, and we are grateful for the opportunity to feature such a powerful narrative. We look forward to seeing more of Vanya's compelling storytelling 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.