When I Look Upon the Sky - By Aadarsh Keyden Ravindran

Written By: Aadarsh Keyden Ravindran

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Aadarsh Keyden Ravindran presents his reflective poem, "When I Look Upon the Sky," as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poignant piece captures the contrast between the natural world and urban encroachment, inviting readers to ponder their relationship with the environment. Through evocative imagery and thoughtful verse, Aadarsh's work highlights the beauty of nature in an era of increasing industrialization.

About the Work

"When I Look Upon the Sky" explores the stark contrast between the untouched beauty of nature and the man-made structures that dominate our landscapes. Aadarsh artfully uses imagery of the sky, buildings, and natural habitats to evoke a sense of longing for purity and simplicity. His poetic style is both contemplative and vivid, encouraging readers to reflect on the impact of human greed and the enduring allure of unspoiled environments.

When I look upon the Sky

Original Submission by Aadarsh Keyden Ravindran

WHEN I LOOK UPON THE SKY

By Aadarsh Keyden

When I look upon the sky,

It looks quite off,

A grayish cloud and mist so high,

And birds who took the day off.

Even at noon, night, dawn, or dusk,

High rise the tall buildings off the coast.

They rise so high like the new Babel,

Like the Almighty God-given toast.

Feels so wrong, we all may say

We learn it's blue and green all day.

Men's greed and gluttony made the world black and grey,

But it may never be the same, they say.

Oh, you're quite wrong, that's for sure

There is a place where it's all so pure,

Where you look upon the sky at night,

And see the stars all hugging tight.

Go many miles north, east, or west,

Where you'll see cuckoo nests.

You'll see a bright blue, peaceful sky,

That looks beautiful, utmost high.

Where green fills your eyes with lust,

Where the wind's pure gust,

It's where you get your rice and wheat,

Where you get the cows for meat.

From where you get milk,

Eggs, yogurt, and bread,

Where you'll get at least a silk,

Where you'll find fields that kiss the eye.

We live in a living hell,

Forgetting where we all belong.

We belong in an unspoiled place,

Where deer still allow you to see,

Where mobile hasn't spoiled the world,

Where the blue and green live in peace.

Where roads are extinct and rivers flow—

It's where I'll live, and no more, no more.

I'll call it a dream while the present is a nightmare.

For the men who live there,

It's a dream to live here.

They wish to be where buildings reach the sky,

But yet they know they live in Eden.

So let us live with nature,

Rather than have a lust for money

And tall greys that burn the eye.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. It invites participants from around the world to share their unique perspectives and artistic expressions. This competition serves as a stage for emerging and established writers to showcase their talent and contribute to the global literary community.

We extend our gratitude to Aadarsh Keyden Ravindran for his touching submission, "When I Look Upon the Sky." His participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the dialogue on nature and urban life. We look forward to seeing more of Aadarsh's thought-provoking 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.