Musa's Inspiration - By Aisha Ahmed

Written By: Aisha Ahmed

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Aisha Ahmed, writing under the name Musa's Inspiration, invites readers into the vibrant world of cultural heritage with her short story, "Musa's Inspiration." This entry into the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 captures the heart of a young boy in the UAE, longing to learn the traditional art of Yola. Through vivid storytelling and cultural richness, Aisha Ahmed paints a picture of family, tradition, and youthful dreams in the charming city of Khorfaqqan.

About the Work

"Musa's Inspiration" is a delightful narrative that explores themes of tradition, familial love, and aspiration. Aisha Ahmed crafts a vivid portrayal of a young boy's dream to master Yola, a cultural dance, under the guidance of his father. The story is imbued with warmth and innocence, reflecting on the joy of childhood and the bonds of friendship and family. Through detailed imagery and a heartfelt message, the story celebrates cultural heritage and personal growth.

Musa's Inspiration

Original Submission by Aisha Ahmed

MUSA’s INSPIRATION

Long, long ago in the UAE, there was a majestic, amazing Emirate named “Sharjah”, there was a fascinating, interesting city called “Khorfaqqan”. It’s also very unique in culture. In Khorfaqqan Sharjah there lived a young boy named “Musa”. He loved hearing about culture and heritage from his father “Khalid”. His father was very good at doing Yola. Musa was really eager to learn Yola as well. But sadly, he didn’t have the equipment.

His birthday was coming soon and Musa hoped he could get Yola equipment as his birthday gift. He had to be good to earn it. His mother once said “Don’t expect high from interesting things!” so Musa kept that in mind.

As his tall, strong father marched in from work, Musa ran as fast as a cheetah for an embrace. “Baba! Baba! I have to tell you a very fascinating fact! Did you know, Khor means creek and faqqan means two jaws! that means we’re being eaten! Aaarrrrrrgh!” screamed Musa, Khalid calmed him down. “MashaAllah Musa, good job! But we’re not being eaten though, that’s just a name, now, go and prepare the Qahwah at the huge, colossal Majlis, because there are some guests coming, and I think you might make friends and yes! The dates! Yes, the dates! Also bring the dates, and other cultural food, if needed. By the time I get fresh, they’ll already be here, so Musa, you do the dates, Mama does the Qahwah and Saeed does the massive Majlis. Ok?”

“Ok Baba” Musa replied.

He passed it on to Mama and Saeed, Musa’s handsome, helpful brother. It was hard work, but they managed. As Musa’s father came downstairs, the doorbell rang.

DING DONG!

Musa ran to answer the door, GASP! It was Amina & Abdullah!

“Assalamualaykum Musa!” they cried, “walaykumusalam Amina & Abdullah! Come in, come in! where are your parents?” Musa asked, “Right here!” Amina exclaimed. It was true! Musa’s mum embraced their mum, and Musa’s dad bumped noses with their dad!

Once all the parents came to the large Majlis, Qahwah and dates were served! The children played happily, the parents chattered noisily. All were happy in one thing. They also ate yummy dinner together. They ate Mandi, and for dessert, they ate home-made Luqaimat! yummy. (Right now, this is making the writer crave for Luqaimat) When they finished their food, it was time to go. But there was one thing missing, something really important. Not a good- bye, a gift for Musa. Amina and Abdullah held out a present, “Happy advanced birthday Musa!” They cried, together. “Oh! Thank you, friends!” Musa said in delight. He waved good -bye and opened the gift. Ohhh! It was a cute, fuzzy, cuddly toy teddy bear! “Look Mama! Look Baba! Amina and Abdullah gave me a lovely teddy bear!” Musa exclaimed. “Wow Musa, that’s nice. You’re lucky to have such nice friends. Good company makes a difference.” His mother said wisely. Musa went to the bathroom and to bed, he slept with his new teddy bear.

Musa woke up, really excited. It was his 9th birthday! He jumped out of bed with excitement. He bounced up and down, singing “It’s my birthday! My birthday! And its going to be great! Insha’Allah.” He quickly got fresh, and sprinted downstairs, “Everyone! Everyone! It’s my birthday!” screamed Musa, with joy. “Yes, yes, we know Musa Happy Birthday. Come and see your present.” Said Musa’s mum. Musa eagerly went to the immensely gigantic majlis. There was a long, huge present. Musa ripped off the tape and behold, Yola equipment! “I know you’ve always wanted to do Yola, so I bought it for you.” Musa’s mother explained, “oh thank you mama!” Musa cried. He dashed to his dad’s room because he’s an expert at Yola and said, “Baba! Baba! Teach me Yola, I have the equipment!” “Ok Musa, chill. Let me get my equipment and I’ll teach you,” replied Musa’s dad. “Oh, do hurry!” Musa exclaimed. Once everything was ready, Musa’s mum and Saeed watched as father and son performed beautifully. Musa was a quick learner and learned Yola easily. From that day on, Musa and his father did Yola together whenever they had time. Musa wants to be an expert at Yola just like his father

ONE DAY.

THE END.

By:

Aisha Ahmed.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating literary creativity and cultural diversity. Writers from around the world share their voices through poetry, short stories, and creative compositions, offering a glimpse into various cultures and perspectives. This competition fosters a global community of writers dedicated to the art of storytelling.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Aisha Ahmed for her enchanting story, "Musa's Inspiration," featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work is a testament to the power of tradition and the dreams that bind us across generations. We look forward to more captivating tales from Aisha 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.