The Flower Lady - By Aamna Punekar

Written By: Aamna Punekar

Category: Poetry.

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Aamna Punekar, writing as "The flower lady," presents her evocative poem "The Flower Lady" as part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Reflecting on the resilience and burdens of life, Aamna's entry captures a poignant narrative set beneath a sweltering sun. Her portrayal of a woman's strength through vivid imagery invites readers to ponder the quiet struggles and inherent beauty found in everyday moments.

About the Work

"The Flower Lady" by Aamna Punekar is a rich reflection on the contrasts of life, captured through the imagery of a woman observed from a distance. The poem uses vivid descriptions and a contemplative tone to explore themes of strength, resilience, and the burdens of life versus knowledge. Aamna's work eloquently questions societal norms and the silent endurance that defines many women's experiences.

The flower lady.

Original Submission by Aamna Punekar

The Flower Lady

She had dusky skin

That shone so brightly in the sun.

I looked at her

From beneath an umbrella.

Scorching heat.

People moved like ants

Across the street.

She sat there

With a gloomy face,

As though she carried

Something heavy.

She looked tired,

Yet beautiful.

Her hair was silver,

Every strand revealing

How long it had been for her.

The wrinkles on her face

Were maps of her youth-

The traces

Of a lifetime.

I stood still,

With an umbrella above me,

A watch on my wrist,

And a bag of books

Pulling at my shoulders.

It was heavy.

God,

What sin is she paying for

To carry the burden of life,

While I carry

The burden of knowledge?

I wear a watch.

She wears glass bangles.

I stand beneath an umbrella.

God,

You made me a woman,

But You taught her

To become

A stronger one.

But…

Did You ever ask her

Whether she wanted

To be strong,

Or whether she simply

Wanted to live?

To read time

From a watch,

Instead of counting

The silver strands in her hair,

Wondering

How long

It has been.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions from around the globe. This prestigious platform invites poets, storytellers, and writers to share their unique perspectives and contribute to a vibrant tapestry of literary art. The competition is a showcase of talent, inviting audiences to engage with new and thought-provoking works.

Thank you, Aamna Punekar, for sharing "The Flower Lady" with us. Your poignant poem adds depth and contemplation to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to seeing more of your evocative work in the future.

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.