The Touch - By Gummadi Krishnaveni

Written By: Gummadi Krishnaveni

Category: Short Story

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a touching exploration of resilience and sacrifice, Gummadi Krishnaveni brings us "The Touch," a profound short story entered in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. The narrative delves into the life of Tara, a dedicated daughter striving to support her family, and the unforeseen challenges she faces. Through the lens of familial love and personal struggle, Krishnaveni paints a vivid picture of courage and endurance against the odds.

About the Work

"The Touch" offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of familial duty and personal sacrifice. Gummadi Krishnaveni crafts a narrative rich in emotional depth, capturing the conflicting emotions of love, regret, and the longing for acceptance. The story's evocative imagery and heartfelt prose underscore the theme of redemption, as Tara seeks solace in the comforting embrace of her mother's touch. It is a testament to the enduring power of love and forgiveness.

The Touch

Original Submission by Gummadi Krishnaveni

The Touch

Tara...

"Wake up... wake up... it's already late," said my mother.

"Yeah, Ammi..."

Hiii...

I'm a girl sparrow, always flying somewhere instead of sitting in one place. My world is Ammi, Sister, and my village. My mother always worries about my behaviour, that I will get into arguments with other children for small reasons. But that's my nature, I can't avoid it. I will not go for a fight without any strong reason.

Anyway... getting late to school …Bye, Ammi...

The days went on. I completed my schooling and Intermediate too in a nearby college.

One day, the whole family gathered. We were having a discussion about my bachelor's degree and colleges.

Meanwhile, there was talk in the village - "After Intermediate, they are providing jobs." The shelter, food and travel expenses will be taken care of by them. I was so excited to hear about the job opportunity. Because my mother has been working alone for my education for many years.

And I have a younger sister. We need to educate her too.

So I convinced my mother to take that opportunity.

Finally Ammi Agreed. The day came.

My mother was sad to send me far for work, and I was happy that I was going to earn for my family.

I took our family photo.

Ammi kept telling the Sir and Madam who came to take us, "Please take care of my daughter."

The vehicle moved from the village. A bunch of girls from different places were also added to the vehicle.

I couldn't even understand what was going to happen. But I made the decision to go alone. After hours of journey, we got down in one street at night, where there was a

dim light and silent surroundings. My breath is also echoing. They gave us a small room to sleep.

The next day when I opened my eyes, they were spreading the girls across the city for work. I also took my luggage and stood in the line.

There was one girl who kept looking at me and smiling. Later, she became my friend.

Like this…Life went on with struggles, smiles, pains and endurance. But I never told the truth about my work to Ammi.

I just kept sending money for running the home and my sister's education.

Ammi keeps asking, "How are you? When will you come?"

It's been 5 years and I have never gone home.

There was always guilt that I shouldn't have come with them. But I don't even dare to meet Ammi even.

But after a long time, I decided to meet Ammi and Sister.

I took leave and came home.

Ammi was very happy to see me. She has prepared tasty food for dinner.

That night I slept with Ammi.

Ammi kept her hand on me while sleeping.

That touch... so comfortable, safe, and relaxing.

After years I'm in safe hands.

Because the kind of work I am doing there is just maintaining my physical body and satisfying other people's wishes.

Yes, I am a sex worker.

No... no... I was forced to become.

I tried to escape, I shouted, I cried and I did everything...

My smile faded. My playing days were gone.

Tears kept running on their own. My wishes vanished.

Sleepless nights, and even sleepless days.

Standing outside of the house by showcasing my body.

Working with unknown people. Some touches are hard. A few touches are painful. Some are cruel. Some are sadistic. And I remain always there as a slave. But money keeps my mouth closed.

I cried every day, "I'm tired. Leave me for a while."

But... money.....

Ammi kept coming in my dreams.

But I am already "impure".

I cannot tell Ammi what kind of job I am doing and that I am trapped. If Ammi and the village people know, Ammi will not remain on this earth. So my mouth stayed closed again. And continued with half breath. In this way, I am continuing my work, even though it is painful.

This is my story...

After years, I am sleeping peacefully with a safe, beautiful, and comfortable touch - my mother's touch.

People say, Mother's touch has forgiveness and healing power. I was forgiven and healed by Ammi.

This is enough to leave my breath.

Tara... closed her eyes with so much comfort and a safe touch.

She asked her mother to forgive her for her work.

Tara felt like her mother had forgiven her.

So slowly, she let go of her memories, her tears, and left her last breath.

Tara...

"Wake up... wake up... Taaraa..."

Ammi started crying.

By

Gummadi Krishnaveni

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary talent and creativity. It invites writers to share their unique voices and stories, fostering a vibrant community of artists. The competition highlights the art of storytelling and the impact of written expression, providing a platform for participants to showcase their work and connect with a wider audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Gummadi Krishnaveni for sharing "The Touch" with us. Your contribution to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 has brought a deeply moving story of love and resilience to the forefront. We appreciate your participation and the powerful narrative you've created.

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.