As a nonprofit focused on building storytellers of the future, Peerbagh is deeply invested in encouraging ALL children to build their creative confidence. We host quarterly children’s writing competitions. Children aged 8-14 can submit their stories, or Katha.

To submit a story for any event, please fill in the form attached here. There is a small entry fee of $5 for non-members so we are able to generate serious responses. Submissions are free if you are a Bento member. All proceeds go back into programs supporting our mission.

How to submit your Katha or story

Past winners: Keep a look out for the publishing announcements our Instagram channel HERE. We periodically share winners through our newsletter and social channels.

Submitting your story for the children’s writing competition

Please refer to the details of the participation along with themes, and timings in the guidelines below.

Submit your story

Deadline: Aug 15, 2026

Theme: “strictly no elephants”

SUBMISSIONS OPEN FROM JUL 15

Themes: All writing events have themes.

  • The theme for summer is “strictly no elephants”
  • The theme for fall is “here and now”
  • The theme for winter is “fish in the tree”
  • The theme for spring is “in a nutshell”

Please write a short story with a maximum of 500 words.

Submission form

  • There is an entry fee of $5 or INR 300 to enter the competition for prizes. It’s free for Bento members. Please add “Bento member” in the form when you’re filling it.
  • All forms details need to be filled
  • Upload the writing (including illustrations) as a PDF in the attached form

Age groups

Children writing must be in the 8-14 age group in English or Hindustani

WHAT to expect/ PRIZES for the children’s writing competition

  • Top 3 entries will win prizes. 
  • The selection of winning entries will be made by select authors from Peerbagh’s writing community. All selections are final.
  • Select entries may be published in an upcoming issue of the Bento magazine.

We partner with Millennium India Education Foundation, a national award-winning non-profit for engagement and distribution.

Filling up the submission form does not guarantee publication or a prize.