To Kauthar - By Qaanita Surtie

Written By: Qaanita Surtie

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "To Kauthar," Qaanita Surtie captures the essence of enduring friendship and the unspoken bonds that tie us together. As part of the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece delves into the themes of connection, memory, and the quiet strength found in understanding and support. Qaanita's words remind us of the irreplaceable role a true friend plays in our lives, making every moment more meaningful.

About the Work

"To Kauthar" is a poignant exploration of friendship's deep and lasting impact. With tender imagery, Qaanita Surtie crafts a narrative that resonates with warmth and authenticity. The poem reflects on shared experiences, silent understanding, and the beauty of having someone who sees your truest self. It is a testament to the power of companionship that transcends distance and time, leaving an indelible mark on the heart.

To Kauthar

Original Submission by Qaanita Surtie

To Kauthar

I know we haven't been best friends our whole lives.

I know there was a time before you-

I just can't remember what it looked like.

Somehow,

every memory I reach for

finds you already there,

like you've always belonged

between the pages of my story.

We've been through the same things,

just in a different font.

Different details.

Different scars.

But somehow,

we've always understood each other

without needing every explanation.

When I look into your eyes,

I see pieces of myself-

not because we're the same,

but because you've always seen me

for who I truly am.

I know we don't go to the same school anymore.

Life has stretched the distance between us,

and I don't get to see you

as often as I'd like.

I've met another amazing friend,

someone who has become one of my best friends too,

and I'm so grateful for her.

But there will always be a place in my heart

that belongs only to you.

A place that no distance,

no time,

and no one else

could ever take.

I still remember primary school,

when rumours spread faster than the truth,

when the empty seat beside me

said more than words ever could.

Everyone else believed

what they heard.

You chose to believe me.

You stayed.

You sat beside me

when no one else would.

You stood up for me

when it wasn't easy.

You reminded me that being alone

and being abandoned

were never the same thing,

because I still had you.

And on the days

when sadness wrapped itself around my voice

so tightly that I couldn't speak,

you never demanded answers.

You simply sat beside me.

Sometimes we didn't say

a single word.

You let the silence carry

what I couldn't.

You waited.

You stayed.

You reminded me that I didn't have to explain my pain

to deserve someone's presence.

Looking back now,

I realise that was one of the greatest gifts

anyone has ever given me.

You.

My safe place.

My constant.

My friend.

The older we get,

the more our lives become different.

Different schools.

Different routines.

Different people.

Different futures waiting for us.

But somehow,

when I think of home,

I still think of you.

And seeing you happy

has always made my own heart lighter.

I am so unbelievably proud of you-

of who you are,

of who you're becoming,

and of every dream you're brave enough to chase.

If I could wish anything for you,

it wouldn't be success,

or perfection,

or even happiness every single day.

It would simply be that life is kind to you.

Because you've spent so much of your life

being kind to everyone else.

Thank you

for seeing the real me

when it would've been easier not to.

Thank you

for staying.

And thank you

for being the kind of friend

who made it impossible

to remember what life felt like before you.

No matter where life takes us,

or how many years pass,

you will always have

a special place in my heart.

Always.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in literature. This competition invites writers and poets from around the world to showcase their talent and share their unique perspectives. It stands as a beacon for emerging and established creatives, fostering a global community united through the power of words.

Thank you, Qaanita Surtie, for sharing "To Kauthar" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your poem beautifully captures the essence of friendship and the profound connections that shape our lives. We are grateful for your artistic contribution and look forward to seeing more of your inspiring work.

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.