Where a grandfather stood,a father grew - By Qaanita Surtie

Written By: Qaanita Surtie

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "Where a grandfather stood,a father grew," Qaanita Surtie shares a deeply personal narrative, contributing to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poignant piece, categorized under Poetry, explores the themes of familial bonds, loss, and the enduring presence of loved ones. Through her touching words, Surtie invites readers to reflect on the unique roles that family members play in our lives, revealing the profound impact they have even after they've gone.

About the Work

Qaanita Surtie's poem is a tender exploration of memory and loss, capturing the essence of a grandfather who becomes a father figure. Her vivid imagery and emotive language paint a picture of cherished moments, from the gentle repair of shoes to the protection of a beloved rose bush. The piece delves into the way grief intertwines with everyday life, suggesting that love can often mean allowing a child to believe they've won. This work resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet journey of remembrance and longing.

Where a grandfather stood,a father grew

Original Submission by Qaanita Surtie

Where a grandfather stood,a father grew

They called him my grandfather.

And they aren't wrong.

By blood, that is exactly who he was.

When he died,

my mother lost her father.

My granny lost her husband.

The family lost a piece of itself.

And I lost my grandfather.

At least that's what everyone says.

But deep down, where grief settles and stays,

I know I lost my father too.

Because he was the only one I ever knew.

I didn't call him Grandpa.

I called him Daddy.

The word came naturally,

like breathing,

like reaching for his hand without thinking.

I remember looking up at him and wondering why he always seemed sad.

It took me years to realize it wasn't sadness at all.

It was just his beard,

covering the smile that had been there the whole time.

I remember his hands.

Strong hands.

Working hands.

The kind that always knew how to fix things.

Every time my shoes broke, or a sole came loose, he would sit down and repair them.

Patiently.

As if there was all the time in the world.

As if neither of us knew that time was already running out.

I remember the rose bush too.

His precious rose bush.

The one nobody was allowed to touch.

The one he protected like it was made of gold.

And somehow,

every single time,

I found a way around his rules.

I'd sneak close enough to touch a petal,

or steal a look at the blooms,

certain I was getting away with it.

Now I wonder if he knew all along.

Maybe he saw me.

Maybe he pretended not to.

Maybe love looks a lot like letting a child think they've won.

It has been nearly six years now.

Six years of birthdays.

Six years of Eid mornings.

Six years of wishing I could tell you everything that has happened since you left.

People say time makes grief smaller.

I don't think that's true.

I think grief grows with you.

It learns your favourite songs,

follows you into new years,

sits beside you at family gatherings,

and whispers memories when you least expect them.

Sometimes I still hear the word "Daddy" in my own mind,

and for a second,

I forget.

For a second,

I think you're still here.

Fixing somebody's shoes.

Protecting your roses.

Smiling beneath that beard.

For a second,

I am small again.

And you are exactly where you've always been-

right beside me.

Not my grandfather.

My father.

The only one I ever knew.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, organized by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of writing. It brings together diverse voices from around the world, offering participants an opportunity to share their unique stories and perspectives. The competition is a testament to the power of words in connecting people across cultures and experiences, honoring the creativity and emotional depth of each submission.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Qaanita Surtie for sharing her moving poem "Where a grandfather stood,a father grew" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her words remind us of the enduring legacies of those we've loved and lost, and we are honored to feature her work. Thank you, Qaanita, for inviting us into your world of memories and reflections.

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.