Happiness is Selfish - By Gargi Sidana

Written By: Gargi Sidana

Category: Essay

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Gargi Sidana presents a compelling essay titled "Happiness is Selfish" in the Essay category of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This thought-provoking piece explores the complex interplay between happiness and sadness, offering a unique perspective on personal emotions and self-discovery. As part of this esteemed competition, Gargi's work invites readers to ponder the intricacies of joy and the human experience.

About the Work

"Happiness is Selfish" by Gargi Sidana is an introspective exploration of the elusive nature of happiness. The essay is rich with imagery, portraying happiness as both a selfish choice and a fleeting presence. Through vivid metaphors and a reflective tone, Gargi examines the duality of joy and sorrow, inviting readers to contemplate the essence of contentment and the personal journey toward inner peace.

Happiness is Selfish

Original Submission by Gargi Sidana

Happiness Is Selfish

Happiness is a selfish choice - mere bits of trial and error. A cauldron of peace that hung above the zenith. I fail to find things on tracks or subway, alleys or along the walking corridors. A chiselled way to smile back at none other than moist feelings.

I trench the tunnels of sheer sadness - I'm the host. There, I saw a flickering child smiling through the curls of her lips. There, I witnessed happiness smiling back at me chasing joy from nowhere.

I call it once, twice, thrice and so on...... But it went to dead ears. It has become a tradition or ritual to walk towards the smiling but sodded face. A smile is the next pain to happiness. Sorrow follows sorrow, pain follows grief, but happiness follows none. It's a one-man army clutching shiny armour of grace in its hands.

I called off my meeting and surpassed back through that grey tunnel where joy lingers. Folks thought I was some kind of psychopath who does nothing but search for darkness through that tunnel. That tunnel has become my home. I gave it a name - 'Patrick Calling'. It's an enchantment of shallow kindness that peeps through the beige walls.

I almost jump/ scream my lungs out when I observe a tiny silvery gleam of happiness. It's like Patrick calling me - Unfulfilled desires.

Desires wear a skirt and crop top of attitude; bow her head and flash a dream. Dream to the realm of pristine, bountiful nourishment of laughter. Happiness is standing poise, calm and falling in my arms.

There, I stumbled a bit but found my way through the door of cheeriness.

Contentment is a choice, a slippery lounge of light where light meets its godfather. Godfather bends the trapezium reality into shape. Shape moulded in colossal of fatal bloom. Bloom to radiate half-boned truth between sadness and contentment.

They are both sides of a coin, flipping from the edges. Edges or widths of baggage poured down on oneself.

"Happiness is a cosmic reaction to external stimulation."

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating literary talent and creativity. This competition provides a platform for writers to showcase their work, offering a diverse array of categories, including poetry, essays, and creative writing. Participants from around the world contribute their unique voices and perspectives, enriching the literary community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Gargi Sidana for her insightful contribution to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her essay, "Happiness is Selfish," offers a profound reflection on the nature of happiness, resonating with readers on a deeply personal level. We appreciate Gargi's participation and look forward to seeing her future endeavors in the literary world.

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.