The River - By Kiran Malli

Written By: Kiran Malli

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In Kiran Malli's poignant poem, "The River," the essence of nature intertwined with personal ancestry unfolds eloquently. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Kiran offers a reflective and immersive exploration through the medium of poetry. This entry, categorized under Poetry, invites readers to delve into the symbolism of water and its profound connection with the past, identity, and legacy.

About the Work

"The River" by Kiran Malli is a contemplative exploration of the natural world and familial roots. Through vivid imagery and a meditative tone, the poem reflects on the enduring power of water as both a life-giving force and a vessel for memories. The river becomes a metaphor for both connection and transformation, offering a poignant recognition of life's cyclical nature and the enduring impact of heritage.

The River

Original Submission by Kiran Malli

The River

I stood in the river today

Water cutting across my ankles

I embrace the cold until it turns warm

Grounded in its silt

Grounded in reverence of erosions power of creation

One part rock, two parts water and time

I stood in the river today

Water lapping at my calves

I cup the water in my hand

Raise them high

An offering

A recognition

Of its need to break free

Eroding the banks that hold it

Like a babe breaking free of her mother’s arms

A desire for more

But not too much more

I stood in the river today

Water tickling my thighs

Dark rain lightly kissing my checks

Like ash falling from the sky

Joining the ashes of those given to or taken by the river

The ashes of those who come from the land that has been my only home

The ashes of those who come from the land of my ancestors

Longing for the Ganga

While drawn to the mystic

The sacred of the rivers of their adopted land

I stood in the river today

Water swirling around my waist

Strong, inviting

The current pushing me

Nudging me to surrender

It washes over me

Carries me

Carries me to the place where my mother’s, my father’s phul were scattered

Where scattered ashes transcend to flowers with a switch of my tongue

Creating the smell of sweet nectar when joined with the water

Amrit

Where the ripples send vibrations of this final resting place

This final ritual

I am the river today

The only one I have really ever known

The river with floating log booms on either side

A marker of my dad’s time in the sawmills

The river flanked by rich harvest ready soil

A marker of my mom’s time working the land

To it

To this river

I offer my own ashes

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, organized by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions from around the world. This prestigious platform invites participants to share their unique literary works in various categories, fostering a global community of writers and poets. The competition is an opportunity to showcase talent and engage with a broad audience, celebrating the art of storytelling and poetic expression.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kiran Malli for sharing "The River" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative reflections on nature and ancestry offer a profound and resonant experience for readers. We appreciate your contribution to this celebration of creative writing and look forward to witnessing your continued 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.