Courage of Flight - By Meenali Gulati

Written By: Meenali Gulati

Category: Short Story

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a compelling short story titled "Courage of Flight," Meenali Gulati presents a profound narrative that resonates with themes of hope and self-discovery. As a participant in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Gulati's work stands out as a testament to the transformative power of unexpected encounters. This story invites readers to explore the depths of despair and the subsequent emergence of hope, encapsulating the essence of life's unforeseen moments.

About the Work

"Courage of Flight" is a deeply reflective story that captures the delicate interplay between despair and hope. Meenali Gulati masterfully weaves a narrative filled with vivid imagery and emotional depth, conveying the protagonist's journey from the brink of despair to a renewed passion for life. Through the simple yet profound act of saving a baby bird, the story explores themes of empathy, transformation, and the intrinsic value of life, leaving readers with a lasting message of gratitude and resilience.

Courage of flight

Original Submission by Meenali Gulati

Courage of flight

Standing at the roof top of my multi-storeyed apartment, my mind was racing with full commitment to end every pain, anger and resentment. I was very sure that I just didn’t want it anymore. On the edge, I felt that soon I will be free.

But suddenly, something dropped just too close to me.

Holding its tiny skeleton of legs, mouth and body, I didn’t know if I could help it breathe. All I knew was that a new born life was before my eyes. As I was about to jump from the roof of my building was this baby bird sent to rescue me? It was so pretty that my feet froze and I could no longer take a leap and all I could say was- “Poor baby let me help you, for your life is precious”.

I held its shivering body in my palm and ran down towards my kitchen. I twisted a spoon and fed it a few drops of water. It was gasping for life and making all efforts to survive! I knew nothing about birds. I quickly made a towel bed for the tiny life to gather strength. I called it ‘hope’. It was flapping its new wings but I now knew that it was safe.

I quickly searched on internet and soon went into deep study of how and what to feed baby sparrows. I found a new reason to live. To pause and to think how precious life is, and we shouldn’t give it up.

Hope became my companion. Gradually as the days passed, hope became so beautiful and its nourished wings gleamed in the bright sun as now they had gathered strength. And so, did I. Soon it was time for Hope to take its flight into the big open world. I had to let go of my birdy and also my fears.

As the birdy took the big leap of faith, I did too. This time, I committed myself not to jump but rather dive into life of gratitude and service to more such hopes!

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated platform for writers to showcase their creative talents and share their stories with a broader audience. This prestigious competition encourages the exploration of diverse themes and styles, fostering a vibrant community of literary enthusiasts. Participants are invited to submit original works that reflect their unique perspectives and artistic expressions.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Meenali Gulati for her moving short story, "Courage of Flight." Her participation in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 highlights her ability to convey deep emotional narratives that resonate with readers. We appreciate her contribution to the competition and look forward to more inspirational stories from her 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.