My Kitchen - By Sumaa Tekur

Written By: Sumaa Tekur

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Sumaa Tekur presents "My Kitchen," a poetic exploration of the domestic sphere, as a part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece, submitted under the Poetry category, delves into the intimate relationship between the poet and their kitchen space. Through this work, Tekur captures the essence of everyday life and the subtle nuances that define our interactions with familiar environments.

About the Work

"My Kitchen" is a rich tapestry of imagery, weaving together the sights and sounds of a kitchen in use. The poem artfully balances moments of stillness with the gentle chaos of cooking. Tekur employs a keen observational eye to highlight the quirks of kitchen life, infusing each line with warmth and familiarity. Themes of routine and intimacy emerge, inviting readers to reflect on their own spaces.

My Kitchen

Original Submission by Sumaa Tekur

Poem 2 for Hashtag Kalakar

By Sumaa Tekur

My Kitchen

The light flickers for four seconds

I no longer wonder why that is

The water-filter is one-fourths full

I know from the slow trickle to the glass

The fruit basket needs my attention

I move the apples away from the chikoo

The towel hanging by the hook

Is half an inch too much to the left

I pull the nonstick pan to fry bitter gourd

And know from the smoke when the heat stings

The pan needs some gentle pampering

And tough love with a screw-tightening at the handle

The tap always leaves an extra drop

After I have fully twisted the cap

I catch that drop in a glass

It only takes from me a micro pause

The sun hits the window sill at ten past eleven

I leave the lentils to dry in this mid-morning hour

The pulses come out shining like jewels

Ready to plunge into tomato puree that’s sweet-sour

The milk pan stays still only at an angle on the hob

It gets wobbly when not kept at the position it likes

The window comes with a rickety knob

That threatens to fall away and roll through the miles

I know this kitchen so well

But does she know me, too?

I wonder what she thinks as I heat the soup

A vessel clinks in response: Did you forget the salt?

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About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the art of written expression across diverse genres. It offers a platform for writers worldwide to share their voices and creativity. This competition fosters a community of literary enthusiasts, encouraging participants to push the boundaries of their craft and engage with a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sumaa Tekur for sharing "My Kitchen" with us for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your vivid portrayal of domestic life resonates deeply, offering a glimpse into the world of everyday rituals. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to more of your poetic expressions.

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.