Student Achiever: ‘I want my writing to make people think’

She calls herself a proud Apeejayite and considers herself a curious and observant person, with a tendency to question ideas and societal conventions that are often accepted without much thought. She enjoys exploring diverse perspectives, challenging established norms, and expressing her observations through writing and other creative pursuits.

With a keen interest in literature, poetry, and creative expression, she aspires to pursue an intellectually stimulating path that allows her to engage with ideas, understand society, and make a meaningful contribution through her work.

In an interview, Prisha Gupta, a Class X student at Apeejay School, Pitampura, talks about how she developed an interest in poetry.

⁠How does it feel to have your poem selected at KALANTAR 2026?

I was genuinely surprised and delighted when I discovered that my poem had been shortlisted. I had submitted it simply because I didn’t want to regret not trying. In fact, I began looking for my name from the bottom of the shortlist, never really anticipating that I would find it.  I feel truly grateful for this recognition, which has been incredibly encouraging, strengthened my confidence in my writing, and inspired me to continue exploring poetry.

 ⁠What inspired you to write The Bejewelled Prison?

The poem stemmed from my observations of the rigid structures and expectations imposed by society. I found myself questioning how much freedom we truly exercise when so many aspects of our lives are predetermined for us. I wanted to explore not only how society perpetuates oppression, but also how people become conditioned to accept and eventually reinforce the very systems that restrict them. The poem is, in many ways, a cynical reflection of this contradiction.

 ⁠What message does your poem convey?

The poem explores how oppression can disguise itself beneath the appearance of beauty, privilege, and choice. It questions how society makes restrictive structures seem desirable, often presenting them as duties or opportunities rather than constraints. It also highlights how people can become so accustomed to these illusions that they eventually accept and perpetuate the very systems that confine them.

 ⁠When did you develop an interest in poetry?

I’ve always enjoyed creative writing, but my particular interest in poetry developed relatively recently, around a year ago. As I began experimenting with it, I discovered how beautifully poetry can capture emotions and express thoughts that ordinary words sometimes cannot. Since then, I’ve grown increasingly drawn to it as a form of creative expression.

⁠How has your school supported your creative journey?

My school has played a significant role in shaping me, not just academically but also as an individual. The opportunities I’ve been given and the experiences I’ve had here have encouraged me to explore my interests, develop my abilities, and become more confident in expressing myself creatively. I’m grateful to be part of an environment that has contributed so much to my overall growth.

⁠What has this achievement taught you?

This experience has reinforced my belief that it is always worth taking a chance, even when the outcome seems uncertain or success feels unlikely. Had I not taken that initial step and submitted my poem, I would never have discovered what it could lead to. It has taught me not to let the fear of an uncertain outcome keep me from trying.

⁠What are your future writing aspirations?

I hope to continue exploring writing, experimenting with different forms. I’d love to see my work reach a wider audience through literary journals and publications, and hopefully, one day, have the opportunity to publish something of my own. I also wish to continue exploring themes surrounding society, human behaviour, and the complexities of the human experience, particularly those that make people think, question, and look at familiar things from a different perspective. Above all, I hope to keep growing as a writer.