The Picnic - By Bhavna K. Mehta

Written By: Bhavna K. Mehta

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Bhavna K. Mehta presents "The Picnic," a short story submission for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This narrative takes us through a seemingly simple day in the life of an ice-cream vendor and his family, exploring themes of innocence, family bonds, and the unexpected challenges that life can present. Through a poignant story, Mehta captures the warmth of family connections against the backdrop of an ordinary day that turns extraordinary.

About the Work

"The Picnic" delves into the joys and unexpected trials of a day in the life of an ice-cream vendor who is also a devoted father. The story contrasts the innocence and joy of a child with the more complex realities faced by adults. Bhavna K. Mehta skillfully uses vivid imagery and emotional depth to weave a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. The story's gentle yet powerful message highlights resilience and the small, meaningful moments that define our lives.

The Picnic

Original Submission by Bhavna K. Mehta

Short Story 4 Hashtag Kalakaar

Word Count: 929

The Picnic by Bhavna K. Mehta

It was around eight in the evening when the ice cream vendor returned home. He was not sure if his baby girl would still be awake, but she was. When she heard him enter, she rushed out to greet him. Before he knew it, she had flung her tiny arms around his neck as she leaped into his arms.

“I knew you would come home before I fell asleep. I told Mummy but she didn’t believe me. See...” She looked pointedly at her mother then turned her attention back to her father. “Did you have a good day? Did the people buy ice-creams from you? It was a beautiful, warm Spring Day- just like I asked for, in my prayer for you.”

“I had a good day, princess. I sold all my ice-creams today.”

“All?”

He nodded.

“Yay!” she squealed in delight, clapped her hands and did a little dance of celebration. “Tell me more!”

There was a flash of pain in his eyes as he remembered and then it was gone.

He put her down gently and said, “Not now. It’s late. You must go to bed now, but tomorrow, we will all go to the park, and I will buy you a giant, pink candy floss. He looked at her, kissed her on the forehead and said, “I promise!”

When she was tucked into bed, he returned to his sparsely furnished lounge and sat down on the worn-out couch he had bought at a second-hand shop three years ago. He closed his eyes and recalled the day’s events.

It was the first week of September and people had come out in large numbers to celebrate the arrival of Spring. Large families, small families, couples and large groups were all around; laughing, playing, joking and enjoying the great outdoors. Everyone seemed to be in a happy mood. Buds were already sprouting, birds were chirping and flitting by merrily, and the ducks were being fed by eager children holding bread slices. Dads carried their little ones on their shoulders while the moms tried to walk briskly in their renewed desire to adopt a healthy lifestyle this year.

There were many other ice-cream vendors at the park, so business did not go as well as Jonathan had hoped. Nevertheless, it was good to see so many happy people around. How he wished that he too could come out and enjoy the day with his wife and little girl.

Just before sunset, Jonathan saw a large group of about thirty people sitting in a circle around a clump of trees. He was drawn to them because they were singing hymns sweetly and melodiously. They were clearly a religious group. When they sang their hymns, their voices rose in harmony in that peaceful and beautiful surrounding in the park, situated in the heart of an urban area.

One of the little children in the group noticed the ice-cream vendor at the end of the prayer and promptly demanded an ice-cream. This started a chorus from other children and some adults. There was the usual noise as children argued over which ice-cream to choose. As everyone settled down, one of the dads struck up a conversation with the ice-cream vendor.

“I want to buy an ice-cream cart like yours. How much would that cost?”

Jonathan laughed and said, “My cart is not for sale.”

“Do you think I’m joking? I’m quite serious. How much?

Jonathan was now uncomfortable. He repeated his earlier answer and added by way of explanation. “The cart is not mine. I work for someone who supplies me and I get a commission on all that I sell.”

There was a strange glint in the man’s eyes. In a quick movement, he leaped onto the bicycle cart, turned the handlebars and then sped off into the sunset laughing as he called out, “This is a hi-jack. Your bike is now mine. What are you going to do?”

He was laughing uncontrollably.

The others watched and shook their heads. Jonathan watched helplessly as his bicycle went for a full round around the lake. He could still hear the man’s laughter as he repeated “What you gonna do? This is a hi-jack!”

To everyone’s amazement, the man did not return after the first round but continued on a second round. Some members of the congregation were beginning to feel uncomfortable now. Someone muttered, “He’s overdoing it now! What’s his problem, anyway?”

By the time the man returned, many of the members were feeling uncomfortable and ashamed. Something needed to be said, but what? The crime in South Africa was not a joke.

“I think I’m thirsty for an ice-cream,” said one.

“Me too,” said another, then another.

And so, it continued until there were no more ice-creams left.

One elder said, “I’m sure you are happy now. All your ice-creams are sold.”

“Yes, I am.”

But there was no smile in the ice-cream seller’s eyes and there was a tired droop to his shoulders as he walked his bicycle away.

………………………

“Can I bring you supper, dear?” his wife asked.

Jonathan was startled out of his memory.

In the dimness of the light, she thought she saw a single teardrop glisten on his cheek. “Are you ok?” she asked sharply.

“I’m ok – just tired. Not hungry. Go to bed. I’ll join you in a while.”

Something in his voice told her – ‘Not now!’ She left him to his thoughts.

He remained on the couch for a while. In his ears, he could still hear, “This is a hi-jack. What you gonna do?”

……………………………………………….

The End

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary creativity, inviting participants worldwide to share their unique voices through poetry and prose. This prestigious platform fosters a global community of writers, offering them the opportunity to showcase their talent and connect with fellow creatives. The competition is a testament to the power of storytelling in bridging cultures and inspiring change.

We extend our gratitude to Bhavna K. Mehta for sharing "The Picnic" with us. This beautiful short story adds a rich layer to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, enriching our understanding of family and life's unexpected turns. We look forward to seeing more of Bhavna's insightful narratives and wish her continued inspiration on her writing 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.