Yearning - By Rishika Shahi

Written By: Rishika Shahi

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Rishika Shahi, writing under the title "Yearning," presents a poignant piece in the Poetry category for the esteemed Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition, known for celebrating creative expression from around the globe, features submissions that explore deeply personal themes. Rishika's poem, "Yearning," delves into the complex emotions tied to longing and introspection, offering readers a glimpse into the heart's silent cries.

About the Work

"Yearning" beautifully captures the essence of longing with vivid imagery and a melancholic yet hopeful tone. Rishika Shahi uses metaphorical language to depict a sea of emotions, where the mind's whirlpool tangles thoughts and desires. The poem's introspective nature invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of waiting and yearning, making it a deeply relatable piece.

Yearning

Original Submission by Rishika Shahi

Yearning

I look at you yearning, Between the stillness and waves, Alive in waiting or dead.

My eyes bear the shore of your warship's

return,

I wait and yearn, the flowers which once bloomed

Now drown in your sea of emptiness where all is infertile.

I wait and yearn, for the mellow sun which laid on my skin, now seeks return.

I wait and yearn,

In melancholy like a river yearns for the

sea.

Though melancholy is the wrong word, I know what's wrong with me

but still I wait and yearn,

for someone to save me.

YEARNING! yet no one will set sail in this trecherous sea.

The whirlpool being my thoughts with no end,

pulling everything down with me.

Tell me! Is this melancholy the thoughts which come to my conscience are puzzled within me,

They are the weeds of my ocean which tangle and drown me.

Yearning for something to surface me.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that invites writers to share their unique voices and stories. This competition provides a stage for poets and writers to express their creativity and engage with a global audience. It is a celebration of literary talent, fostering a community of artists dedicated to the craft of writing.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Rishika Shahi for sharing her evocative poem, "Yearning," with us as part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work contributes to the rich tapestry of voices that make this competition a celebration of diversity and creative expression.

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.