The River Learns - By Aadhil Ahamedh

Written By: Aadhil Ahamedh

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "The River Learns," Aadhil Ahamedh offers readers a contemplative exploration of nature and wisdom. As part of the Poetry category in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece invites us to reflect on the beauty and depth found in unexpected places. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful musings, Ahamedh draws us into a world where a river, under the orange sun, learns to carry the weight it encounters.

About the Work

"The River Learns" employs rich imagery to paint a serene yet profound portrait of a hippopotamus in its natural habitat. The poem's mood is tranquil and reflective, with a literary style that encourages readers to ponder the deeper meanings of peace and wisdom. Ahamedh uses the hippo as a symbol of uncelebrated strength, inviting us to see beauty in its stillness and acceptance.

The River Learns

Original Submission by Aadhil Ahamedh

The River Learns

Below the orange sun

Sleeps a huge hippo,

Half in earth, half in water,

As though undecided.

Its body, ungracious,

Doesn’t carry the beauty

That lean gazelles

Or swift silverfish do,

Nor does it carry the elegance That poets rush to write about.

Yet the river parts for it

Without complaint,

And the grasses sway away Even without a breeze.

We laugh at its heaviness,

But who knew how much he carries The weight of old memories, And those of harsh ones.

Mountains too are heavy, I’d say.

When the orange sun goes down, He rises from the waters,

Mud slipping from his back

Like a king rising from a bath.

As he moved,

Twitching his tiny ears,

The reeds bent,

The crocodiles too,

Without even looking.

As I kept watching him tread, Slowly swaying his fat self

And wagging his tiny tail,

I saw what wisdom might look like- Not an eagle soaring skies,

Not a lion roaring loud,

No, not a butterfly fluttering around.

The hippopotamus

Sits still in cool mud,

Breathing loud,

Seeing the stars pass overhead.

Perhaps that's peace

To let yourself drown

And to belong fully

To one's weight

And wait till the river learns How to carry you

But all the while

Who writes about a hippo A disgusting beast

Lying in mud all day

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases diverse voices from around the world in various literary forms. This prestigious event offers a platform for poets and writers to share their unique perspectives and creations, fostering a global appreciation for the written word.

We extend our gratitude to Aadhil Ahamedh for sharing "The River Learns" with us. This reflective piece, part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, enriches our understanding of nature's quiet wisdom. Thank you, Aadhil, for your insightful contribution to this celebration of creativity.

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.