The Winner - By Manasi Jana

Written By: Manasi Jana

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a poignant exploration of success and its emotional aftermath, Manasi Jana presents "The Winner," a heartfelt poem submitted to the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions in poetry and creative writing. Manasi's work delves into the complex theme of victory intertwined with unexpected feelings of guilt and introspection, offering readers a window into the nuanced emotions that accompany personal achievements.

About the Work

"The Winner" crafts a vivid narrative that juxtaposes the triumph of success with the unsettling feeling of guilt. Through introspective verses, the poem captures the emotional turbulence of achieving a long-sought victory, only to find oneself grappling with the loss of friendships and the weight of expectations. The literary style is reflective and evocative, using imagery of light and darkness to underscore the internal conflict faced by the narrator.

The Winner

Original Submission by Manasi Jana

I hate being the winner,

For once I don’t wanna be drowned in guilt

It’s weird because my parents are happy, are celebrating

While I can only see the cracks on the world I’d built.

The world so bright that I forget the dark

A world with my friends, who slowly lose their spark.

Why do I feel this guilt-

After finally winning in the end?

When I look down at those ‘neath me, my friends.

Why do I forget every hour I had spent,

Fixing and fixing and fixing my silly mistakes

Is this how it was supposed to be?

After spending years of my life just to win

At my own victory ceremony, I can’t be glee?

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that encourages writers from all backgrounds to express their creativity and share their unique perspectives. This competition is dedicated to fostering a community of literary enthusiasts who appreciate the power of words to inspire and evoke emotion. Participants submit their original works, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of contemporary literature.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Manasi Jana for sharing her evocative poem, "The Winner," with us. Her participation in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 adds a valuable voice to the ongoing conversation about success and personal reflection. We look forward to seeing more of her insightful 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.