Populus Manet - By Bhavjot Singh Saluja

Written By: Bhavjot Singh Saluja

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Bhavjot Singh Saluja, writing under the name Populus Manet, presents a compelling piece titled "Populus Manet." This work, submitted under the Poetry category, delves into themes of unity and resistance, urging reflection on societal issues. Saluja's poem captures the spirit of collective struggle and hope, resonating deeply in today's world.

About the Work

"Populus Manet" by Bhavjot Singh Saluja is a powerful poetic narrative that unveils the stark realities faced by common people under oppressive regimes. The poem is rich with vivid imagery and profound reflections on social justice. Saluja skillfully weaves a tapestry of resistance, urging unity against deceit and exploitation, with a call for dignity, liberty, and equality.

Populus Manet

Original Submission by Bhavjot Singh Saluja

Populus Manet

O’ listen, my fellow countrymen.

As I herald my tale of woe.

The rats in power slither through,

to reap the realm they’ve laid low.

They wave their flags ,they drape you in colours, decrying dissenters as traitors of the land. The crowd, spurred on in their rage,

striking down foes named by a single thought.

Then come the vilest of vile:

They bleed the workers, they plunder the farmers. The common man may strive, yet all in vain, for those men weigh grain against gold, and proclaim the scales to be divine.

And there too, the hound, the loyal mutt, making friends into enemies, setting all astir. Hatred is their sport and pastime,

these mongrels unchain the worst in men.

Your name may mark your forehead,

your religion may mark your home.

But ‘tis hunger, my brothers,

that brands you all the same.

Hunger not of food or riches, nay,

hunger for dignity, for liberty, for equality. Your struggle is our common labour,

from which our brotherhood is spun.

Unclench thy fist, unhand thy sword,

for we must bear the people’s weight.

Let not deceit find purchase here,

so unity is where our strength lies.

Let the ignominious rulers tremble, quaking at the might of the masses. For ’tis no throne nor gilded sign that e’er can conquer the people, For the people remain.

HASTA LA VICTORIA SIEMPRE!

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse literary talents from around the world. It aims to foster creativity and expression, providing writers and poets an opportunity to share their unique voices. The competition emphasizes original thought and artistic innovation.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Bhavjot Singh Saluja for sharing "Populus Manet" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your words inspire and provoke thought, reflecting the power of poetry to influence change. We are grateful for your contribution and look forward to witnessing more of your 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.