She - By Andaleeb Ahmed Khan

Written By: Andaleeb Ahmed Khan

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Andaleeb Ahmed Khan presents a stirring piece titled "She." Set within the poetry category, this work delves into the complex societal dynamics surrounding the birth and upbringing of a girl. Khan's poem resonates with themes of cultural expectations, identity, and survival, offering a profound commentary on the challenges faced by women. Through eloquent verses, "She" invites readers to reflect on the societal norms that shape the lives of women from birth.

About the Work

Andaleeb Ahmed Khan's "She" is a poignant exploration of the societal and cultural expectations imposed on women. The poem's tone is both reflective and critical, as it unravels the restrictive norms that confine a woman's identity to marriage and domesticity. Rich in imagery, the poem portrays a cycle of silence and endurance, urging a reevaluation of long-held beliefs. The emotional depth of the poem is profound, challenging readers to question why these cycles persist.

She

Original Submission by Andaleeb Ahmed Khan

She

You carry her for nine months.

She’s a miracle, a gift from God,

growing inside you.

Some are overjoyed; others are distraught,

because it’s a girl.

When you bring her into this world,

she’s a treasure you hold in your hands.

You promise to love her,

to protect her from harm.

Time passes, and she’s growing.

You adapt your mindset to the norms of culture

and society,

limiting her growth for fear of what people

will say.

Her whole identity becomes down to one fact:

Who will marry her?

How will she survive in her husband’s home

if she is intelligent, educated, and has a mind of

her own?

She’s struggling for survival.

It’s hard for her to breathe.

Her body and her soul are a shattered mess.

You know this.

Yet, you remain silent.

You’re scared to face people and their talk,

What will they say?

Instead of breaking the cycle, you wonder:

“If I endured it, why shouldn’t she?”

Some have the riches and the means to help,

but still say they’ll talk it out or pray for things to

get better.

And decades pass, yet the same cycle continues.

And then it’s said:

“That’s how it is and always has been.

Why break it?”

I ask, “Why have her in the first place?”

She isn’t a sacrificial lamb.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a celebration of literary creativity from around the world. This prestigious event invites writers and poets to share their unique voices and perspectives. With no restrictions on themes or styles, the competition serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing diverse talent and thought-provoking works. As participants from various backgrounds contribute, the competition fosters a rich tapestry of global narratives.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Andaleeb Ahmed Khan for her powerful contribution, "She," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work challenges us to reconsider societal norms and the roles imposed on women. We thank her for sharing such a resonant and thought-provoking piece with us.

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.