Sticky Fingers & Secret Kingdom in the Almirah - By Magi George

Written By: Magi George

Category: Creative Non Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the realm of creative nonfiction, Magi George, writing as Sticky Fingers, offers a nostalgic piece titled "Sticky Fingers & Secret Kingdom in the Almirah." This evocative narrative, presented for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, captures the essence of childhood memories, exploring the warmth and magic found within family traditions. The story invites readers into a world where time is measured by love and the simple joys of life.

About the Work

Magi George's narrative gracefully captures the innocence and wonder of a child's world, where an almirah transforms into a secret kingdom. The piece is rich with vivid imagery and sensory details that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia. Through the lens of a child's perspective, the narrative unfolds a tapestry of familial bonds, love, and the timeless comfort of home. The writing style is both tender and vivid, drawing readers into a cherished world of memory and imagination.

Sticky Fingers

Original Submission by Magi George

Sticky fingers & secret kingdom in the almirah

The wooden almirah opens, and suddenly, the serious, hushed house softens into pure magic.

To the rest of the world, Grandfather is a man of iron discipline. His legendary stash of crystal jars, packed with cherry preserves, crisp cookies, and treats that could put any local bakery to shame, is strictly locked away, saved only for rare, special guests.

But during school breaks, a seven-year-old little girl holds the secret key. She saunters into his room right after brushing her teeth, and the stern face of the disciplinarian instantly melts into a wide, proud grin. The heavy wooden doors swing wide. “Pick whatever you want,” he tells her, granting her full custody of his secret kingdom.

With her carefully chosen treasure in hand, she pads over to the warm, smoky comfort of the old ancestral kitchen block. There waits Grandmother, a picture of love and devotion in her traditional white chatta mundu, her gold kunukku earrings catching the morning light. A warm cup of milk is ready and waiting.

Perched on the heavy wooden bench, the little girl carefully dips her cookies, savouring the slow, sweet stillness before the day breaks wide open.

The rest of the morning is a blur of pure sunshine and freedom: trudging out to the farm to harvest fresh, prickly pineapples; sticky-fingered from the sweet fruit that just filled her tiny tummy, sitting high on the wide concrete stair banisters just watching the river flow past; and wandering aimlessly through the grass, trailing behind the slow-moving cows.

It’s a world measured not by clocks, but by the warmth of milk, the crunch of a cookie, and the love of the ones who make her feel entirely safe. Beautiful, carefree days.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the art of storytelling and poetic expression. This prestigious event gathers diverse voices from around the world, offering a platform for writers to share their creativity and unique perspectives. Participants engage with a broad audience, contributing to a vibrant global dialogue through the written word.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Magi George for sharing "Sticky Fingers & Secret Kingdom in the Almirah" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This beautifully crafted narrative invites readers to reflect on the simple joys of childhood and the enduring warmth of family. Thank you, Magi, for your contribution to the world of creative writing.

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.