The Second Shakuntala - By Swasti Devarshi

Written By: Swasti Devarshi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Swasti Devarshi presents "The Second Shakuntala," a poignant poem submitted to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece reimagines the timeless character of Shakuntala, drawing inspiration from Kalidasa's classic "Abhijnanam Shakuntalam." Swasti's work delves into themes of empowerment and forging a personal legacy, inviting readers to reflect on the enduring strength and resilience of Shakuntala.

About the Work

"The Second Shakuntala" is a vivid exploration of self-realization and empowerment. Through evocative imagery and a reflective tone, Swasti portrays Shakuntala as a figure of transformation, opting to shape her destiny rather than succumb to it. The poem's rich metaphors and symbolic use of nature convey a message of renewal and purpose, inviting readers to find inspiration in Shakuntala's journey of self-discovery and legacy-building.

The Second Shakuntala

Original Submission by Swasti Devarshi

The Second Shakuntala

Sitting in the garden of seclusion, the second Shakuntala

with the ring of deception.

She is reluctant to let go of the ring, fearing the oblivion of Dushyanta. Her eyes are filled with undying hope to reinstate herself in the kingdom of hearts.

She converses with every fallen leaf. She knows it cannot be green again, yet it is part of the tree, though freed now from their elusive bonding, like her own.

One leaf fell on her cheek to wipe her tears. Another whispered in her ear:

"We fall not to mourn like you,

but to enrich the soil.

We fall not to die, but to build

the cradle for a leaf to come."

Unshackled leaves choose

to dance with the wind.

They wander, they explore,

then decide where to settle -

which seed, which root to nourish with their last breath.

Shakuntala smiles, her eyes brighten;

She knows, now, her purpose.

She decides to grab the reins of her chariot,

ditching her fixed destiny.

Her eyes no more look for lost love,

no voyage to the kingdom of Dushyanta.

She takes Bharat, her brainchild,

creating her own heir, her own legacy.

She moulds the ring into an unbreakable pen

and writes her story of success

at each milestone she crosses,

to guide the way for every forlorn

future Shakuntala.

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Context Reference

This poem is inspired by Kalidasa's "Abhijnanam Shakuntalam". In the original, Shakuntala, wife of King Dushyanta and mother of Bharat, faced grief of separation and public insult in Dushyanta's court. In this poem, Shakuntala chooses another path.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the diverse voices and imaginative expressions of writers worldwide. This esteemed platform provides participants with the opportunity to share their unique perspectives through the art of poetry and creative writing, fostering a vibrant community of literary enthusiasts.

We extend our warmest thanks to Swasti Devarshi for sharing "The Second Shakuntala" with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her insightful reimagining of Shakuntala offers a powerful narrative of strength and legacy. We look forward to seeing more of Swasti's inspiring 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.