Gurez - By Meenakshi Sharma

Written By: Meenakshi Sharma

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the heart of this year's Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Meenakshi Sharma presents "Gurez," a poignant poetry entry that delves into themes of freedom and self-identity. With a writing style that captivates the reader, Meenakshi, known by her pen name Gurez, explores the binding chains of societal expectations and personal longing. Her work stands as a testament to the power of introspection and the universal desire for liberation.

About the Work

"Gurez" by Meenakshi Sharma is a reflective piece that addresses the struggle between societal norms and personal freedom. The poem's mood is both contemplative and challenging, as it questions the constraints imposed by traditional expectations. The use of vivid imagery and emotive language highlights the internal conflict faced by many who seek to break free from societal bonds. This work resonates with anyone who has ever felt confined by external pressures.

Gurez

Original Submission by Meenakshi Sharma

गुरेज़

आज़ादी से इतना गुरेज़ क्यों है तुझको?

हर रोज़, हर ठौर तू ही बाँधती है मुझको।

आदर्श बिटिया का तमगा सजाना था तुझको,

आतुर आँखों में उमड़ते सवाल दबाने पड़े मुझको।

भेदती नज़रों से बचना था तुझको,

बंद कमरों में गुम होना पड़ा मुझको।

सात फेरे लेकर वचन निभाना था तुझको,

हर ‘ना’ मिटा ‘हाँ’ बन जाना पड़ा मुझको।

हमसफ़र की राहों का दिया बनना था तुझको,

रूह तक को बुझाना पड़ा मुझको।

मर्यादा के नाम पर शर्तें माननी थीं तुझको,

अपना स्वरूप खोना पड़ा मुझको।

औरों को अपना गंतव्य बनाना था तुझको,

बढ़ते कदमों को रोकना पड़ा मुझको।

रिश्तों के धागों में उलझना था तुझको,

पंख लहूलुहान करवाने पड़े मुझको।

क्यों अपनी ही ज़ंजीरों में बाँधती है मुझको?

क्यों आज़ादी से इतना गुरेज़ है तुझको?

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event that showcases the vibrant voices of writers and poets from around the world. Participants share their unique perspectives through creative expression, contributing to a rich tapestry of literary art. The competition is a celebration of creativity, encouraging both emerging and established writers to explore and share their narratives with a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Meenakshi Sharma for sharing her profound poem "Gurez" with us. Her participation in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the event with introspective depth and artistic integrity. We look forward to seeing more thought-provoking work from Meenakshi 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.