Poetry into Possibility: Writer Antara Martins launches debut collection 'Poison' to support girls’ education in India

Pratham UK are thrilled to announce the release of “Poison”, a debut poetry collection by the brilliantly talented, author and Pratham UK supporter, Antara Martins who has already been hailed as a “wonderful young writer with so much heart and passion” by The Times. 

“Poison” is a collection of coming-of-age poetry which documents 17-year-old Antara’s metamorphosis, delving into themes of love, ambition, and rivalry. This is not just a book of poems – it is her personal odyssey! 

A passionate advocate for education and gender equality, Antara is donating all proceeds from the book to Pratham’s Second Chance Programme, which is designed for women and girls who, due to various circumstances, have had to discontinue their education. The programme offers them the opportunity to resume their studies and complete their high school diploma as well as provides academic tutoring, life skills training, and emotional support. All of which enables learners to tackle the hurdles that once prevented them from achieving their educational goals. 

As well as all proceeds from Antara’s book being donated to Pratham’s Second Chance Programme, a generous Pratham donor has also pledged to match the funds raised from her book, doubling donations being sent in aid of the women’s education programme.

Antara’s philanthropic drive stems from her personal experience with the life-changing opportunities education provides. As she shares: 

“My love for writing blossomed from an early fascination with studying literature—from Dante to Shakespeare to Brontë. That’s why I know, deeply and personally, that education is far more than just a path—it is a promise. A promise of hope, of rising above circumstance, of dreaming beyond limits. Having been so fortunate as to have learnt from talented professors and had access to textbooks and study guides, I know how much it has changed my life and it is my greatest wish that every woman has this chance to pursue education and be empowered by it.” 

The “Poison” collection is more than just a celebration of Antara’s writing—it’s a vehicle for real change, as she uses her platform to give back to women who need it most. Antara’s dedication to women’s empowerment aligns perfectly with the young writer’s work as co-CEO of Youth Against Sexual Assault and her leadership in various academic and athletic pursuits. She is not only the editor of her school’s Philosophy Magazine and leader of their debate team, but she recently won in the U19 squash championship at the prestigious Queens Club! In her spare, Antara also runs the popular blog, www.Antarology.com which has attracted over 100,000 visitors.

Speaking on the launch of her debut poetry collection, Antara says: “I don’t believe there are words that can describe how I feel upon the release of my debut poetry collection “Poison” more than it is a dream come true! My heart is overflowing with pure joy, excitement, and anticipation—not just for readers to uncover the stories I’ve poured into these pages, but for the incredible change they will ignite through it.” 

By purchasing “Poison”, you’re not only reading stories born from Antara’s creativity but also supporting Pratham’s efforts to rewrite the futures of young women across India. Every copy sold fuels the dream of providing women and girls with the education they deserve, helping them reclaim their future. 

Antara explains: “I chose to donate all proceeds from “Poison” to Pratham’s Second Chance Programme because I believe in its revolutionary power to change lives. Through this initiative, I want to ensure that every girl and woman who has been denied education can reclaim her future, her hope, and her opportunities. Together, we can rewrite stories—one life, one dream, one schoolbook at a time. In turning words into wings, and poetry into possibilities, we may carve the paths and change the lives of the most remarkable young women in the world.” 

Executive Director of Pratham UK, Nick Sankey adds: “Antara’s remarkable generosity and vision reflect the spirit of transformation that drives Pratham’s mission. Her decision to donate the proceeds from “Poison” to our Second Chance Programme not only celebrates the power of education but actively opens doors for countless women who have been denied opportunities. Antara is helping to change lives through both her art and her advocacy, paving the way for a brighter future for women in India.” 

Get your copy of “Poison” today and join Antara in turning poetry into possibilities for young women across India!