In the Rhythm of a Heartbeat - By Senthamarai Naidoo

Written By: Senthamarai Naidoo

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Discover the poignant work of Senthamarai Naidoo with her poem "In the Rhythm of a Heartbeat," a touching entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This reflective piece is a heartfelt homage to her mother's enduring spirit and resilience, capturing the essence of choosing life despite profound loss and change. With its universal theme of memory and legacy, Naidoo's poem resonates deeply, offering readers a glimpse into the emotional landscape of a devoted daughter’s tribute.

About the Work

"In the Rhythm of a Heartbeat" is a tender elegy that explores themes of memory, resilience, and the enduring influence of a loved one. With a lyrical rhythm, Senthamarai Naidoo paints vivid imagery of a mother's strength and spirit, even as she faces life's challenges and eventual departure. The poem's mood is both somber and uplifting, celebrating a life well-lived and the legacy that continues through the smiles and mischief of future generations. The careful choice of words evokes a sense of gentle nostalgia and profound respect.

In the Rhythm of a Heartbeat

Original Submission by Senthamarai Naidoo

In the rhythm of a heartbeat,

Memory sings a song,

Beating out a melody

On the whispered wings of a tear

You chose life...

With a sad farewell,

Your Daddy died.

Your heart shattered

It felt so frail

But, with chin held up high

You held back that cry

You chose life......

Then, the kids, they left

They built their lives

And trotted the globe

And barren, so barren was your nest.

But still, mummy,

Without the hint of a sigh

You kept your chin up high

And embraced the change

You chose life...

When your legs gave up

Your heart, it filled with rage.

You could endure the pain,

But not the bed as a cage.

Still, with steely resolve,

You accepted your lot,

You chose life.....

Then,

One day...

Your body got weary

Your breath began to falter

Your soul got all teary.

This home,

It was your altar

You wanted life!!

You chose life...

You chose life, mummy.

So,

In death you live on

Because you chose life...

In the smiles of your children

In the mischief of your grandchildren

Your aura will live on

Because, even in death

You chose life...

by Senthamarai Naidoo

Written in memory of my mother on this, the first anniversary of her death. Her presence lives on in every breath we take because she chose life!!

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating literary creativity across genres. It provides writers worldwide an opportunity to share their unique voices and stories, fostering a vibrant community of authors and poets. This annual event highlights originality and expression, inviting participants to explore and present their innermost thoughts and narratives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Senthamarai Naidoo for sharing her moving poem, "In the Rhythm of a Heartbeat," with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 is a testament to her eloquent expression of love and memory. We are grateful for her contribution and the emotional depth it brings to the competition.

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.