Musa's Inspiration - By Aisha Ahmed

Written By: Aisha Ahmed

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the enchanting short story "Musa's Inspiration" by Aisha Ahmed, readers are transported to the culturally rich city of Khorfaqqan in Sharjah, UAE. This captivating tale, part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, delves into the life of a young boy named Musa, whose dreams are intertwined with the traditions passed down by his father. Aisha Ahmed beautifully captures the essence of cultural heritage and the innocence of childhood aspirations in this heartfelt narrative.

About the Work

"Musa's Inspiration" artfully weaves elements of cultural heritage and familial bonds as it follows young Musa's quest to learn the traditional Yola dance. The story is rich in cultural imagery and warmth, portraying the vibrant community life and shared family moments. Aisha Ahmed uses vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue to highlight themes of aspiration, tradition, and the joy of learning, making this a heartwarming story of dreams and inspiration.

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 an esteemed international platform celebrating literary creativity. It invites writers from around the world to showcase their talents in various categories, providing a space for diverse voices to share their stories and insights. This competition is a testament to the unifying power of words and the celebration of cultural narratives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Aisha Ahmed for sharing "Musa's Inspiration" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Aisha’s portrayal of cultural tradition and familial love is truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing more of her creative endeavors and wish her continued success on her literary journey.

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.