“The India I Still Believe In” — Independence Day Writing Contest 2026”
“This Independence Day, Zorba Books is hosting a free online writing contest for writers across India. Between 5th and 14th August 2026, anyone can submit an original story, poem, or article in English or Hindi on the theme ‘The India I Still Believe In’ — a tribute to the India we hope for, not just the one we remember. Entry is free, and the two entries with the highest genuine views and comments win Amazon vouchers. Winners will be announced on 17 August 2026.”
Writing & Submission Guidelines
- Write an original story, poem, or article on the theme “The India I Still Believe In”
- Language: English or Hindi
- Word Limit: 80–250 words
- Original work only — plagiarism will lead to disqualification
- Zorba Books reserves the right to reject entries that are offensive or inappropriate
- Register and publish your entry on the Zorba Books DIY Publishing Platform
- Add the mandatory hashtag #IndependenceWritingContest2026 at the end of your entry
Who Can Participate
- Open to all writers across India — students, working professionals, first-time writers, and experienced authors
- Free entry, no registration or submission fee
- Entries accepted in English or Hindi
Winner Selection
- The two entries with the highest genuine views and comments on the Zorba Books website will win Amazon vouchers
- Only views and comments recorded on the Zorba Books website until midnight of 14th August will be counted
- Any unfair attempt to inflate views or comments may lead to disqualification
- In case of a tie, the Zorba Books editorial team’s decision will be final
Contest Timeline
- Submissions Open: 5 – 14 August 2026
- Winners Announced: 17 August 2026
Prizes
BENEFITS
- The 2 entries with the maximum views will win exciting Amazon Vouchers!
- Social Media Shout Out with a photo and a link to the winning blog.
- Exposure for your writing
- Certificate of Winning
EVERY ENTRY
- Free entry
- Your very own blog page
- Chance to be featured on Zorba Books website and gain exposure
- Your writing will remain published on the Zorba Books website
- Free visibility to readers across India
- ONLY one entry per author for the competition will be entertained*
- Can be converted to a book at any time with DIY Free Publishing
*Subject to terms and conditions
Writing Guide
- Choose a real memory, person, or moment that reflects the India you believe in
- Write in the language you’re most comfortable in — English or Hindi
- Keep it simple — avoid difficult or overly formal words
- Write honestly; let the emotion come through
- Stay within 80–250 words — make every word count
Winners of the Summer Holidays 2026 Writing Contest
| Rank | Blog Title | Winners | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Highest Views | The Blueprint | Sanjay |
| 2 | Highest Views | The Dropped Catch | Sameer |
Frequently Asked Questions
A: The theme is “The India I Still Believe In.” Writers can submit a story, poem, or article inspired by a personal experience, an unsung hero, a childhood memory, or their vision for India’s future
A: The contest is open to all writers — students, working professionals, first-time writers, and experienced authors. There is no age restriction and no entry fee.
A: Submissions are open from 5 August to 14 August 2026. Winners are announced on 17 August 2026.
A: No, entry is completely free, and writers can submit unlimited entries.
A: Entries can be submitted in English or Hindi.
A: Entries must be between 80 and 250 words.
A: Publish your story, poem, or article on the Zorba Books DIY Publishing Platform and add the hashtag #IndependenceWritingContest2026 at the end of the post.
A: The two entries with the highest genuine views and comments on the Zorba Books website win Amazon vouchers.
A: Amazon vouchers, a feature on Zorba Books’ social media, and a certificate. Every eligible participant also receives a Participation Certificate.
Help
If you have any questions about the writing challenge, send us your query through the Contact Us form.
Hello Zorba Books
Greetings from Muskan,
First of all thank you so much for such a fantastic email.
I have already posted my poem for the contest.
Regards
Muskan Dahiya 🙏🏻
The closing date and date of result seems to be in conflict. What is the number of words needed.
The closing date for the Dusshera Contest was 24th October. 25th October results will be announced
Please note I have 2 stories to submit for the contest. How shall I send them.
If you would like to enter the stories in the contest all details available here https://www.zorbabooks.com/writers-challenge/
For any other help connect over phone on 0124-4259579
Here’s my entry, theme: A Rogue Nation and India’s Fury – https://www.zorbabooks.com/spotlight/aakanksha-jain/poem/who-is-to-blame/
I am extremely disheartened. I find this notice about the Summer Contest posted some 4 weeks ago while I got the email about the contest only yesterday! There was no mention of the word limit in my email while here it has been clearly stated to be 1000.
ZorbaBooks has always dealt with me fairly. If some people do not want me to have anything to do with the publishing house, why don’t they tell me so? I’ll withdraw, with a saddened heart though as our association dates back quite far.
Whatever, I am not withdrawing my story. I am neither rewriting it. If some people are trying to give me the impression of being greedy, prize-crazy, there is not much I can do.
I wish Zorba all Success & Happiness. Best wishes.
Dear Sir,
These contests are meant to uplift. Pl do take it in good spirits. This contest was only posted on 3rd June. Not 4 weeks ago. We appreciate and value your participation.
Hello
Zorba books…first I would like to thank you for all these competitions…it really boosts my confidence…
This is a great platform for all the young poets and writers…
I just wanted to know that do you provide certificates (digital) for the winners of each competition…
This platform is great !!…
Regards
Ilam