Wingword Poetry Prize
₹50,000 + Book Deal
A national online poetry competition for Indians aged 15 and above. Offers cash prizes up to ₹50,000, a book deal, and publication in an anthology.
Mode
Online
Fee
₹1,000
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Self-paced submission before the deadline.
Time needed
Depends on individual research and writing time
Eligibility
Open to Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin aged 15 years and above. There are no restrictions on the theme or style of poetry. Submissions are accepted in English, Hindi, and various other regional languages. Both beginners and experienced poets are encouraged to apply.
- Age range
- 15 years and above
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- This contest does not require any academic involvement.
- Prerequisites
- Poems must be original work of the applicant.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
₹50,000
The grand prize winner receives ₹50,000. Second and third prize winners receive ₹30,000 and ₹20,000 respectively. Top 10 winners receive ₹10,000 each.
Prizes
Publication in Anthology
The work of 100 commendable mentions will be published in a best-selling anthology, providing them with valuable exposure.
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
All participants receive a guaranteed Certificate of Participation to acknowledge their creative efforts.
Career pathways
The first prize winner receives a book publishing deal with Delhi Poetry Slam, a significant step in a literary career.
Recognition
National Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 1 Feb 2026
- Registration closed
- 30 Sept 2026
How to apply
- 1Visit the official Wingword Poetry Prize website.
- 2Select the number of poems you wish to submit and pay the corresponding entry fee online.
- 3After payment, you will receive an email with a link to the submission form.
- 4Complete the form with your personal details and paste your poem(s).
Rules and guidelines
- Only Indian citizens and persons of Indian origin are eligible to enter.
- The competition is open to anyone who is 14 years old and above.
- Poems must be the original work of the applicant.
- Submissions are accepted in English, Hindi, and other specified regional languages.
- Any length, style, or theme of poetry is welcome.
- Previously published poems are allowed.
- Each poem is considered an individual entry.
Technology requirements
- A device with a stable internet connection to access the online submission form.
- A valid email address for communication and receiving the submission link.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
The entry fee starts at ₹1000 for one poem, ₹2000 for three poems, ₹3000 for five poems, and ₹5000 for ten poems. Participants can choose the number of poems they wish to submit.
Refund policy
Entry fees are non-refundable once the submission has been made.
About this opportunity
The Wingword Poetry Prize, organized by Delhi Poetry Slam, is a prestigious national competition aimed at discovering and promoting emerging poets from India. It offers a significant platform for writers to showcase their original work, gain recognition within the literary community, and launch their careers. The competition celebrates creative expression and welcomes diverse voices from all backgrounds.
Participation is open to Indian citizens and people of Indian origin who are 15 years of age or older. Submissions are accepted in English and various regional languages, with no restrictions on theme or style. This makes it an inclusive opportunity, and beginners are especially encouraged to enter, as the judging focuses on originality and emotional impact over technical perfection.
Rounds and format
The competition consists of a single round of submission. All submitted poems are evaluated by a panel of judges, and the winners, including the top prizes and 100 commendable mentions, are selected from this pool of entries.
How entries are judged
Poems are scored based on originality of thought, creativity, and style. The judging criteria emphasize the poem's ability to make the reader think deeply and evoke emotions, rather than focusing on technical aspects like grammar or rhyme schemes.
Selection process
Winners are selected by a panel of judges based on their scores. The top 100 poets, referred to as 'Commendable Mentions', have their work published in a best-selling anthology. Top prize winners receive cash awards and other opportunities like book publication deals.
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
This is a competition focused on original poetry submission. There is no set curriculum, and participants are free to write on any theme or subject. Poems can be of any length and in any style. Submissions are judged based on originality of thought, creativity, and style, rather than on grammatical correctness or complex vocabulary. The goal is to encourage authentic and emotionally resonant writing.
Frequently asked questions
What strategies can participants employ to enhance their chances of success in this poetry competition?
Participants can improve their chances by focusing on originality, emotional depth, and unique stylistic elements in their poetry. Reading diverse forms of poetry and practicing creative expression regularly can also be beneficial for developing a distinctive voice and standing out among submissions.
How do judges evaluate submissions, and what aspects are prioritized during the assessment process?
Judges prioritize originality of thought, creativity, and the overall style of the poem. The primary focus is on the poem's ability to evoke emotion and stimulate deep thought, rather than strict adherence to grammatical rules or complex vocabulary. Authenticity and impact are key.
What are common pitfalls or mistakes participants should avoid when preparing their entries for the competition?
Participants should avoid submitting unoriginal work or poems that lack a clear voice. Overly complex language that obscures meaning and neglecting to proofread for errors are also common mistakes that can detract from a submission's impact. Ensure the poem resonates with personal experience or a unique perspective.
How can participants manage competitive pressure and maintain their creative flow throughout the submission period?
Managing competitive pressure involves focusing on personal growth and the joy of creation rather than solely on winning. Setting realistic goals, taking breaks, and engaging in other creative outlets can help maintain creative flow and reduce stress. Remember that participation itself is a valuable experience.
What is the significance of being published in the anthology for commendable mentions, and how does it benefit poets?
Publication in the anthology provides significant national recognition and exposure for poets. It serves as a valuable credential for emerging writers, offering a platform to share their work with a wider audience and potentially open doors to future literary opportunities and collaborations.
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