Masquerade - By Sonal dixit Kelkar

Written By: Sonal dixit Kelkar

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the enthralling poem "Masquerade," Sonal dixit Kelkar takes readers on a vivid journey through the complex layers of deception and truth. Submitted to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece captures the essence of human facades within a banquet setting. Through this competition, participants from around the world explore themes of identity and revelation, and Sonal's contribution is a testament to the power of poetic expression.

About the Work

"Masquerade" delves into the intricate dance of hiding and revealing one's true self. The poem is rich in imagery and symbolism, painting a vivid picture of a society where appearances often mask deeper truths. The tone is both contemplative and revealing, inviting readers to ponder the nature of authenticity and deception. Sonal’s use of language creates an atmosphere of intrigue and introspection, encouraging a reflection on what lies beneath the surface.

Masquerade

Original Submission by Sonal dixit Kelkar

Masquerade

A drama of mystified glances to the left and right of a banquet,

Searching for a face which has revealed the pretentious facade,

Not certain whom to give a bow, and to whom say a final good bye,

When you get caught in the sea of a masquerading lie.

Accepting a contour, unaware of a sudden mask drop,

Startled at the real beneath, with a mocking grin on the top,

Adorning the deceit with fragile and velvetty feathers,

A deep gaze into the naked eyes reveals the shocking features.

Cordially invited to parade in the maze of masquerade,

Hold the swords for the dark stares and nasty dumb charades,

A true beauty beholds! revealing the endure is a task,

Guard your features, the skin may get peeled off while removing the mask.

A gallant may gracefully glide, with no deceit in the crowd,

Buried beneath in ancient, a story untold, waiting to be heard in loud.

All the beasts and the beauties scared to be caught in the vareity net,

What you truly are is revealed when the mask falls off flat.

Don the desired mask for a jiff, don't hide beneath,

For, the treacherous minds hide the hell within, without any guilt.

Let go off the cold hearts with concealed self and a vicious spin,

With a real self only, golden hearts you can forever win.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a distinguished platform that showcases the creative talents of writers worldwide. This competition celebrates the written word, welcoming submissions in various categories, providing a stage for poets and writers to share their unique voices and perspectives with a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sonal dixit Kelkar for her thought-provoking poem "Masquerade," submitted to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work enriches the tapestry of this year's entries, offering a unique exploration of identity and truth. We look forward to more inspiring contributions 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.