Father Dear Father

This was written when my father who was suffering from the dreaded cancer breathed his last.He will always be missed.He has been my greatest inspiration.


When I was young , I was an ignorant fool ,
I hated your rules , I thought you weren't cool..

I wanted control of the TV remote you held ,
I spoke to boys and the way you just yelled !

I thought you were just being too unfair ,
Issuing order after order , without any care.

You didn't ever hug us or wipe a tear ,
I called you 'Hitler' behind your back,Oh,dear!

Now I am married , and a mother too,
I realize your concern for an adolescent new.

You knew  I could be easily waylaid ,
By the big,bad world , your precious maid.

Even without a hug , you held me close ,
You didn't wipe my tears , but helped me fight those.

You toiled and moiled throughout your life ,
To give us luxuries and a life sans strife.

Encouraged me to follow my goal ,
Praised my achievements before every soul.

I knew not then , but I do know now ,
I have been blind to your love and how !

Nothing can equal your love for me ,
Just wish you could forever be.

Now that the dreaded  'C'  has taken you away ,
I pray for you and miss you each day.

Count Your Blessings

This write-up was written in September 2006 and it bagged a prize at the essay competition organised for teachers at one of my earlier schools.

Luck was on our side.As it was a Sunday could easily board the Dadar-Thane local.A window seat....सोने पे सुहागा !!! I was returning after a visit to my mother along with my twelve year old daughter ,Shreya. Soon the compartment was partially occupied and it chugged along.As I love to observe people,I let my eyes wander around whle Shreya was engrossed in her favourite Famous Five book.She sat opposite me and beside her sat a well-dressed lady carrying a slightly older girl.The girl was having difficulty in sitting upright and the lady was holding on to her with much difficulty.Across her sat her maid with her purse and bags.It didn't take long for me to realize that the little girl was suffering from cerebral palsy ,a physical disorder wherein one had little or no control over one's bodily movements.The girl started making queer sounds ,sort of a wail and a sigh which were loud enough for all of us to hear.

Shreya heard the sounds,looked at the girl and then at me questioningly.I gestured that she should go back to reading and she obeyed.All eyes were on the girl now.they all looked at her curiously.It appeared as if she was accustomed to such stares from total strangers.The mother, nonchalantly tried to pacify her with a gentle touch and soothing ways.This calmed her.Another sound filled the compartment and all eyes were drawn to a petite,dusky girl.She was just about eight years of age according to me.She clutched a collection of books and shouted,"Colour books,ABCD,khana khazana!"A long bag dangled from her shoulders.ironically,she was wearing an old ,tattered school uniform.Seeing my eyes on her she handed a few books to me and cajoled me to buy them with a smile.I picked The Beginners Guide To ABCD'." सिर्फ दस रूपया ,मैडम .बाबा- बेबी के लिए ले लो ." I asked her," स्कूल जाती हो? A B C D  आती है?" Showing surprise at being asked this she shook her head saying, "क्या मैडम, अपुन कैसे स्कूल-वूल  जायेगा?" I asked her name and she boldly replied,"Asha Doddi" before I could make any more enquiries she collected her books and went away realizing that no one was going to buy her wares here.

'Asha' the name echoed in my mind. Asha meant hope,it was only hope that kept her going. Not hope for a better life or bright future but hope to have at least two square meals a day,hope to earn some money and hope to have a place to sleep at night .My eyes were drawn once again to to girl who was now getting more agitated and moving her frail hands and making a commotion.Yet her mother patiently pacified her .I looked at my daughter ,Shreya.She was reading her book with wide eyes and an open mouth(a thrilling mystery always brought this reaction in her)My mind started racing.One compartment,three girls,three different lives. Shreya ,born to middle class parents who struggled to give her the very best for her bright future. Then the little girl with the lady who came from an upper class family .Financially well-off but unfortunately their darling daughter had to face hardships that came with her physical challenges.Along with the girl her family had an untiring task ahead of them. And then,there was Asha, the little girl who had never been to school but wore a hand-me-down uniform and sold books.

It really made me think.Whenever we face hardships we curse our fate and ask God,"Why me?"We fail to see the blessings that God showers on us each day.How often we think-wish I had a big house like hers,when can I get a car like theirs,why can't my daughter be as clever as him.....?Our list is endless.We fail to see what we have and covet what we don't have.

My mind was cleared as if by magic.Silently I prayed to God and thanked Him for everything .A short journey taught me something that will remain with me all through life's journey.
I was reminded of the phrase-
'I cried for a pair of new shoes,till I saw a man with no feet.'

Mumbai.....Six Feet Under

This was written as an ode to the floods that Mumbai witnessed on 26/7/2005.
It was nature's fury that rocked Mumbai and Mumbaikars.
That day is still remembered with dread.

Mumbai,the island city,got a bolt from the blue-
Heavy rains caught her unawares,it was a disaster true!
While MET had predicted" a few scattered showers"
Mumbai faced torrential rains for 24 long hours.

It all began on that terrible Tuesday of 26/7
Along with high tide came 94 cms of rain from heaven,
The commercial capital of India;submerged in the deluge,
Loss to life and property was unprecedented and huge!

Buses,cars and autos-all ran out of steam,
Airports had runways like an over-flowing stream.
Both the main expressways were for 18 hours closed,
While the three railway lines in their watery graves dozed.

With landslides at Sakinaka and many areas flooded,
people faced hardships towards home as they treaded.
School kids and office-goers were stranded in the rain,
Alas!Unfortunate ones were never to be seen again!

The city's good samaritans then came to the fore,
With food,shelter and support,they helped like never before.
The BMC,police and politicians;played the blame game,
While the fire brigade and army jawans to the rescue came.

Nature had fought back against man's greed for space,
Rivers and lakes overflowed,clogged drains worsened the case.
ut with Mumbai's indomitable spirit of never say die,
She slowly recovered dreading the aftermath that did lie.

Bear It ,Bombay!!!

There were a spate a calamities that Mumbai bore in quick succession between the year 2005-2006.
Floods,bomb-blasts and bandh........the city witnessed it all.
This poem was a salute to Mumbai's never say die spirit.

The ghosts of 26/7 haunted us once more,
yet again rains showers brought misery at our door.

Then that very Sunday the saffron brigade struck,
They held the city to ransom as miscreants smeared muck.

Mumbai bore all silently came to each others rescue,
Before they could recover another blow came through.

Bomb-blasts ripped the city ,brought us to a standstill,
Innocent lives were snuffed out ,the fanatics were out to kill.

Yet again poor Mumbai ,she had to go through hell,
But was back on her toes,on her past she couldn't dwell.

But it's time now to awake,stop living in fool's paradise,
Let's get our forces together and against terrorism rise.

We have shown indomitable spirit and resilience for long,
Now be aware and fight back,Yeah Mumbai,you are strong!!!

Let Us Remember..........

This poem was written to highlight the work done by our patriotic leaders for our motherland.It is a shame to see where our politicians are taking India now.

As we unfurl our Tricolour this fifty-ninth glorious year,
Bow your heads in homage for all our martyrs dear.

Let us remember the Mahatma who led us on our way,
Gave Ahimsa and Non-cooperation as weapons with us to stay.

Let us remember Tilak, for whom freedom was a goal,
He said it was his birthright, to achieve which he played a major role.

Let us remember S.C Bose who formed the Azad Hind Troop,
"Vande Mataram!" cried the jawans and put the British in a soup.

Let us remember Nehru modern India's architect,
He was our first Prime Minister,helped our country resurrect.

Let us remember Bhagat Singh,Vivekanand and Lajpatrai,
Thy instilled patriotic fervour for freedom they were willing to die.

Let us remember the thousands unsung heroes who laid down their life,
Each year we celebrate our independence which they won for us after untold strife.

View From The Top

This poem was written as an assignment at the Language class where we had to pen down our thoughts in just fifteen minutes flat.I sat at my favourite spot near the window and wrote this.
This poem always brings fond memories of my favourite English teacher at college, Richa Madam.

Majestic ancient buildings vying for space with the new,
Long winding roads with cars that move as if on cue.

The gateway of India stands basking in all her glory,
Tourists and merry-makers revel in her magnificent story.

The vast sea beyond brings an untold calm,
The feelings that I possess now have a wordless charm.

far down below I see increasing crowds swarming,
Each one lost in thought-with a desire, a  longing.

Up from this window when I pause to look and see ,
My tensions and worries disappear, my mind-it roams free!

Warm Welcome

This was penned as we wanted to welcome the new teacher-trainees to our college just after we graduated from BTTC.We recited this at the BTTC alumni meet.

It is our greatest pleasure to have you here with us now,
We extend our congratulations and welcome you with a bow.

Armed with your B.Ed degree you are sure to go afar,
With the blessings of your teachers go shine forth like a star.

As you take our place here as B.Ed students anew,
We too aspire to do well,get distinctions at least a few.

The SUPW's and practice lessons we're sure you miss them now,
Endless lectures and notes you too survived them,wonder how!

You have all our good wishes innovate and teach with vigour,
Ignite the flame of learning and be an exemplary figure.

Standing Tall.......

Written in praise of my Teachers Training college where I spent two wonderful years of fun and made some great friends.This is about the Bombay Teacher's Training College(BTTC) at Colaba.
Specially written for the college magazine.
Sweet memories!

Even after so many years of glory,the BTTC stands tall,
Even amidst ancient heritage monuments,what makes it exceptional amongst all?

The ferries at the Gateway beckon,Regal entices with a new movie each week,
The State Police Headquarters proudly stands,people throng the museum,our past glory to seek.

For the latest hits in movies and music,Rhythm House is the place to be,
For those with great patriotic fervour,Army-Navy building and Hutatma Chowk is yours to see.

The kala Ghoda truly speaking,has an untold charm of its own,
At Sports bar and Cafe Mondegar see tourists frolicking or relaxing all alone.

The shopping enthusiasts look for bargains,books,bags,jewellery,they just can't make a choice,
A hawker sells flutes,beggars plead and beg,a vendor vies for attention screaming on top of his voice.

But even amongst these prestigious folk our BTTC stands tall,I'll tell you why........
It trains the trainees with missionary zeal,to ensure worthy citizens for India as the years go by.

भारताची शान

Written in praise of the Indian Tricolour for an annual presentation.

This style of song is called a powada and was mostly used during the Maratha period.

भारताच्या तिरंग्याची कीर्ती बेफाम आहे

आणि सदैव राहणार .........

तिरंग्याची कीर्ती बेफ्फाम,

दुनियेत गाजते नाम 

थोकुया त्यास सलाम,जी....जी-जी-जी ...हो!

ह्या तिरंग्याला रंग किती?

अर्थातच तीन........ 

चला तर, घेऊया त्याचे ग्यान, 

का करावा सकलांनी त्याचा अभिमान?

पहिल्या रंगात आहे बलिदान,

अनेकांनी अर्पिले प्राण,

(हो का?सांगा बारा!)

नजरेत तिच्या अंगार ,

इंग्रजांवर केला तिने वार..............

झ्हान्शीची राणी म्हणाली,

नाही दूंगी नाही दूंगी,मेरी झांसी नाही दूंगी!

इंग्रजांना दिले रोकुना,

वर सांगते छाती ठोकून ,

आता पुरे तुमचा हा छळ 'दावू देश क्रांतीचा बळ ,

भगव्या रंगाची ऐका शान जी....जी,जी,जी....हो!

दुसर्या रंगत शांती अफाट,

एकजुटीची दावी  वात....

अहिंसेची देऊनी साथ ,

लावली इंग्रजांची त्यांनी वाट .

शांततेचा केला प्रचार,

जगभरी झाला जय-जयकार .

पांढर्या रंगाची न्यारी ठाट  जी....जी,जी,जी....हो!

समृद्धीचे आहे प्रतिक ,

मातीचे संगे कौतिक,

शेतकऱ्यांचा गालीतो घाम,

देशाचा त्यांस सलाम.

हिरव्या रंग देतो अशी स्पुर्ती ,

पिकाऊ मातीची सांगते कीर्ती.

हिरवा रंग अलौकिक जी...जी,जी,जी.....हो!

तीन रंगांची ऐकुनी गाथा,

जोरदार टाळ्या ऐकावा आता ..........

तीन रंगांची ऐकुनी शान ,

अभिमानाने उंचाव मान,

तिरंगा देशाची शान जी....जी,जी,जी.....हो!

Time Waits For None

You have missed your bus,train or plane,
Made mess of an important job or something mundane;
You are stressed out,completely out of mind,
You cannot understand how the heavens you lag behind.

When you find yourself in situations like these,
Just think about how often you have procrastinated please;
For,"I'll do it later,not now",
Is the root cause of all misery,I'll explain how.

When we keep for tomorrow what we should do today,
We stack up chores that burden our way;
Work does not disappear ,it has to be done,
Without haste and stress the battle is always won.

'Time is precious' it's time we learn to value it,
Without proper time management you'll never be a hit.
So friends,learn this fact,be punctual,start now,
Usher in a glorious future ,with punctuality you surely know how.

Senior Citizens

Experiences in life makes man wise,confident and bold,
So senior citizens are just apt for valuable guidance and wisdom untold.

These young at heart people who summers sixty have crossed,
can lead us through difficult times,instill confidence when all hope is lost.

We,children and adults alike,should never undermine their worth,
'Cause we are their greatest support and can give them their rightful place on earth.

These golden stars keep us engrossed with interesting tales of yore,
They connect us to our Indian-ness,bring traditions to the fore.

Children,the youth and senior citizens too when march together in unison,
can cross life's hurdles that come their way,through hard work,perseverance and belief in mission.

Bachchan Magic

The first poem was written as a dedication to the senior Bachchan, Harivanshrai Bachchan who breathed his last in 2003 and the other is in praise of the star,Amitabh Bachchan himself.

Harivanshrai Bachchan

Harivanshrai Srivastav,senior big B,
Multi-lingual individual,poet beyond par was he.

Extremely thoughtful,generous and loving too,
Talent and grace of heart are found,but in a few.

His book madhushala was a literary rage,
He will be be forever remembered come many an age.

Amitabh Bachchan

The tall charismatic hero who stole everyone's heart,

Was, but a lad from Allahabad who had a shaky start.

The unassuming Babumoshai of Anand and the serene jai from Sholay,
Turned to angry young man,As in Agneepath and Deewar he did portray.

His comedy tickled our ribs,as Bade Miyan and Anthony ,
Then came the scheming con-man in Ankhen and Kaante for all to see.

Now as he ages with grace we see a new side to him,
As an unrelenting patriarch in K#G he opposes every whim.

A person with untold talent that many millions appreciate,
He's the uncrowned king of Bollywood who's emulated in every state.

Reaching Out To The Stars

A tribute to Kalpana Chawla who came from a small Indian village and was a part of the US mission to space.She made India proud with her dedication and zeal.

At the birthplace of the Pandava brother ,Karna,
In Haryana's Karnal town kalpana was born,
JRD Tata was an inspiration for this bold teen,
Through perseverance and confidence this star shone.

With single-minded dedication and focus,
She aspired an aerospace engineer to be,
The world watched her dream turn to reality
India's first woman astronaut in 1997 was she.

After her first path-breaking voyage to space
As mission specialist she her second journey took,
And after sixteen days of experiments in life sciences there
Seven jubilant astronauts planned their landing by the book.

But alas!Eagerly awaiting folks watched
As they entered earth's familiar atmosphere,
Just about eight minutes from a landing safe,
Their aircraft burst into flames,filled minds with fear.

Twisted metal relics and charred mortal remains,
Was all that was left of the great endeavour,
Gloom and despair all ver the world spread,
What an unfortunate end to zeal,zest and fervour.

Kalpana Chawla,Pantheon of Indian Space Science,
Her name will be forever etched in our mind,
And though some memories of the fatal mishap linger,
This golden star will inspire our goals to find.

Nature's Fury

This poem was penned when there were earthquakes in quick succession in Gujarat and Maharashtra state.

Latur,Orissa and Gujarat now,nature's fury hit hard and how,
Devastated families wailed in despair,the earthquake had them in its snare.

Young children celebrating their 52nd republic,were crushed under the inhuman walls of brick,
The land known for dandiya-raas and arts, was broken and crushed into a thousand parts.

The nation heard of this great loss,all came forward be it employee or boss,
They contributed generously in cash and kind,yet survivors could not put their past behind.

For the heartless it was opportunities galore,they filled their coffers in this unfortunate uproar,
As they still feel the tremors in that state,lonely hearts wonder,"What will be our fate?"

A ravaged land is slowly being built,their misery can make stone hearts wilt,
Let's include them in our prayer each day,may God give them strength and lead the way.

Humanity Under Attack

This poem was penned when the WTC was under attack by the extremists.
This attack shook the whole world and religious fanaticism had a new meaning.

The New Yorkers readied themselves as the day dawned bright and new,
One and all were on their way ,unaware of what would meet an unfortunate few.

The majestic twin towers of the WTC had a hustle and bustle of activities,
A little after 9 am calamity struck,as people went about their daily duties.

Two passenger planes with unsuspecting crew,headed full speed at the towering WTC,
And in no time that wondrous structure ,a mass of burning rubble it was to be.

Even as the whole world watched in horror,two planes at Pittsburg and the Pentagon crashed,
Thousands were dead,missing or maimed,hopes of bereaved families cruelly dashed.

This was a terrible act against humanity where religious fundamentalists raised their ugly head,
Is this just the beginning of World war 3 ,won't these inhuman acts leave humanity dead?

What Grandparents Mean......

Parents of our grandparents,that's what grandparents are,
They pamper and coddle us,their love has no par.

When our parents scold us and show us their wrath,
They wipe away our tears and support us a lot.

They relate their experiences ,a treasury of experiences they unfold,
But what we like most about them is their loving heart of gold.

What are grandparents?They are so much that's fine,
they teach us to enjoy life's wonders,these precious gems of mine.

Motherhood

 After two years of marriage I longed for something more,
Yearned for the joy of motherhood ,a little girl to adore.

My joys knew no bounds when the stork was on its way,
After about nine months of waiting dawned the golden day.

I held her in my arms, a body soft and warm,
Exhilarated on gently feeling her wondrous miniature form.

I watched my daughter grow under my love and care,
Cherished the lovely moments ,even the hardships I did bear.

I say a silent prayer for my little gem each day,
Pray for the Almighty's blessings to guide her on her way.

The Kingdom of God

This was written when the Godhra riots took place at Gujarat where people travelling in a train were burnt alive and there was widespread rioting among two communities.

Gujarat burns with communal rage,unabated terror rules the state,

Mosque or mandir,what will it be? Who will win this war of hate?

Poverty ,corruption and illiteracy too ,in this land of gandhi now dwells,

All these issues take a backseat now,only religious fervour and fanatism sells.

My beloved countrymen,think awhile,the disputed land over which you fight,

Is just a piece of land,nothing more,stop your claim on what is not your right.

Search not for God in temple or mosque,Ram nor Allah will be proud of you,

For the kingdom of God is in your heart,seek Him there and be a human true.

The Will I Also Die Life

This poem was written when there were a spate of deaths at the zoos all over India due to neglect and government apathy.

Thirteen bengal tigers of Nandankan zoo
Died on being injected 'medicines' by an ignorant few.
International outrage was what they had to face,
"Problem beyond control"they say and rest the case.

At the Sangli zoo things don't differ,
Six lions died this year while the others still suffer.
The Gir forest just cannot lag behind,
Here too Asiatic lions stone-dead we did find.

Lions and tigers aren't the only suffering lot,
This ill-treatment of wild cats isn't the exceptional blot.
More than fifty peacocks of Rajasthans Morena village,
Died untimely deaths,how inhuman,it's sacrilege!

Apes,elephants,bears and porcupines too,
We take kids to see them at the nearby zoo.
But we fail to understand that what amuses us,
Is the root cause of misery and their untimely death thus.

The animals at circuses and zoos are truly a miserable lot,
They live in pitiable conditions,sufficient food they get not.
Dead animals are replaced like worn out rugs,
Their cherished freedom is denied by inhuman thugs.

I think its high time we give them their due,
these mute animals don't belong to the zoo.
Lat them roam free in sanctuaries henceforth,
"We shall protect our wildlife"come let's take this oath.

The Royal Visit

This poem was written when Bill Clinton visited India in the year 2000.

After all the hoola and hype,
Amidst hordes of the security type,
The President of the US was here,
In India with mum-in-law and daughter dear.

After the warm welcome at Delhi
He danced with the women of Nyla with glee,
A visit to Cyberabad was next on the cards,
And Bombayites,they were Clinton die-hards.

The Prez floored one and all with his smooth talk,
Women especially could only stare and gawk,
After the short visit he bid India goodbye,
To meet Musharraf and give peace a try.

The presidents visit caused a great flurry,
Roads were repaired in a great hurry,
Spic and span roads greeted the eye,
The best Indian hotels for attention did vie.

Now that the visitor has left the state,
We,the citizens are left to our fate,
What he saw was just an eyewash,
The true story lies not in the suites posh.

The president didn't see our crowded trains,
Or the garbage heaped in narrow by-lanes,
He failed to see the mushrooming huts,
Illegal buildings and power-cuts.

The scarcity of water ,crime rising high,
He missed all this,I wonder why,
Let's hope he pays a visit again,
And sees the true India and all its pain.

With Love From Kargil

This poem was written when the Kargil war was being fought at the borders.

At the world's highest altitude,
Mother India's sons did her proud,
All over Drass,Siachen and kargil
Gunfire boomed clear and loud.

On those awesome altitudes,
The jawans for months did stay,
Braving hostile snowstorms and bullets,
Not for a moment did courage give way.

Far away from gore and death,
Are the ungrateful,undeserving us,
Young sons fight for their country's honour,
Politicians play games,kick up a fuss.

Our long lost brothers ,the Pakistanis,
Greed for power has turned them into foes,
We opt for bus links and peace talks,
They mutilate bodies and cut off toes.

The world denounces their misdeeds,
Calls them a terrorist state,
While here a father,mother,wife and son,
Hope with eyes fixed at their gate.

Let's not forget their sacrifices,
Or the sufferings they did bear,
As they shower us with love from Kargil,
Join your hands and say a silent prayer.

Car Pool Rap

This song was written as a part of the unit on Save Our Environment and was set to a rap song tune .
It was presented before a group of teachers/heads of school from Netherlands and Denmark (2012-13)

Boom-boom-chak!Boom-boom-chak!
The Sulonia car pool team is back!
Boom-boom-chak,boom-boom-chak!
let's now hear our carpool rap!

Don't get stuck in traffic any more,
Riding alone is Oh,such a bore!
When you ride together,
You save on precious fuel,
To save our environment,You have to carpool!

Boom-boom-chak,boom-boom-chak!
The Sulonia carpool team is back!
Let's now hear our carpool rap!

So all you people-Do what is right,
Start carpooling for a future bright,
Reduce greenhouse gases,
Boom-boom-chak!
Reduce driving stress,
Boom-boom-chak!
Reduce fuel consumption,
Boom-boom-chak!
Make traffic jams less.
Boom-boom-chak!

Boom-boom-chak,boom-boom-chak!
The Sulonia carpool team is back!
Let's now hear our carpool rap!

Competency-based Curriculum

This poem was written when the new competency based curriculum was introduced by the NCERT  for all the schools.There were many training modules introduced for teachers.

The burden of bags,the stress on memory,
The absence of values,dull classes in which they had to be.

To put an end to all this,The NCERT thought of a plan,
A policy that was joyful and value-based,one aimed at drawing skills innate.

The load of books it reduced,and confidence in kids it did restore,
Teachers' creativity came to the fore,Class teaching wasn't boring any more.

The workload of teachers has increased ,it's true,but what's a little extra work for me and you,
When we shall reap a wonderful harvest,of citizens bold,intelligent and conscientious too!

Teacher Dear Teacher!

Come the fifth of September,
One and all take time to remember;
The likes of great builders like Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan,
Who took teaching to be their goal,their mission.

The ashramas of yore have made way,
For the modern schools of today;
Teachers now do not on a pedestal stand,
They are right by our side to lend us a hand.

What is a teacher? She's so much that's fine,
She tells us what's wrong,where to draw the line;
She's a mother part-time,a child's dearest friend,
A citizen-moulder and a doer till the end.

With a kind understanding she banishes fears;
And lights up the way for me and my peers;
She comes down to our level and plays the game;
She craves not for money,name nor fame.

The satisfaction she gets
Is all she covets;
The flicker of wisdom in our eye,
Delights her as the years go by..........

                 

Cinema-Cinema!

Lord save me from this cinema,
Which always puts me in a dilemma,

For I just cannot choose which words I should use
To describe the various films I see, I am in a fix,Lord help me!

Commercial films are truly a bore,the same old formulas make you sore,
They dance around trees hand in hand, from where they find the time,I can't understand!

They put in violence and emotion in great measure,
Seeing all of which brings me untold displeasure

And art films?Good Lord,don't ask!They're always putting corrupt people to task,
Real life drudgeries they bring to the forefront,seeing all of which makes me in my seat,grunt.

What is this cinema?It's just a door,through which we see heroines showing all they can show,
The heroes are shown to be a heavenly lot,but without hesitation I tell you, income-tax they pay not!

But what's the use of complaining to you?'Cause you know very well as much as I do,
That however much I criticize cinemas like this,no new movie till date did I miss!

It's A Girl!!

Distribute sweets,blow the horn,
Rejoice,rejoice, a son  is born!

What did you say ,it isn't true,
Don't tell me it's a girl,O,please don't do!

I don't mind even a boy who is lame,
'Cause girls are a burden ,a curse,a shame;
(While boys carry forward the family name.)
Girls incur heavy financial loss,
Boys earn the bread,they are the boss!

No my friend,do believe my verse,
Times have changed for better not worse;
Girls are neither burdens nor a curse,
They are the ones who have been givers for years.

They are the ones who do domestic chores,
They help the child to stand up from his fours.
To their elders they lend a helping hand,
The young ones' feelings they understand.

They aren't imprisoned in their walls four,
They are the doctors,nurses,teachers and more.
What is a girl?She's not just a child.....
She's a mother,sister,wife,friend and guide.

There are ,but a few who really do,
Acknowledge the worth of a girl-child it's true,
But from now on let's give her the respect due,
'Cause the future of the girl child depends on you!

Lessons To Learn in Life

Watched the movie Lagaan........again after many years.The movie never fails to thrill even after all these years.Here is the poem that was inspired by this great film.

Titled -'Lessons To learn In Life' it was written about 10 years ago.

Poverty,corruption,inflation and misery
All the things that sum up life's drudgery,
What makes us Indians forget these woes
keeps us excited and up on our toes?

The answer is cricket,what else could it be?
We are a cricket-loving nation you see!
So the movie Lagaan I went to see,
What an experience for my friends and me!

A patriotic fervour filled the hall,
Dress Circle,balcony and of course, the stall!
They cheered and applauded aloud every scene
And booed at the injustice of Russells,the mean.

It was a cricket match worth it's salt
"C'mon Bhuvan !They screamed without a halt.
The movie was based on the levy of tax
To pay which,villagers had to break their backs.

So they had no option but to play a match,
They had to beat the British,here was the catch.
They knew little,nay,nothing about the game,
Bhuvan accepted the challenge all the same.

When the winning stroke was hit
There was an uproar,they enjoyed every bit!
The movie was not just cricket,it was about life-
It showed the way to beat out strife.

With practice,hard work,determination and hope,
For each one's success there's tremendous scope.
Remember that unfair means and injustice too
Will not gain a foothold where truth and justice do.

Only the path of Shreya-The Good
Is what we have to follow,we really should.
So as you go through life each day,
Learn from your experiences and brighten your way!

Time Tattle

This was penned when I was waiting for hours for my school head to turn up for a meeting.He always preached about time management and how important it was to be punctual.Sadly,he did not practice what he preached.I jotted this down and circulated it even while he spoke at the meeting.


Time ticks on without a clue,
It waits not ever for me and you,
Precious time once lost is gone,
So use your time wisely,be it evening or morn.

Good use of time is a blessing in disguise,
One who uses it well is considered wise,
For those who know not the value of time,
There are three words-"You are committing a crime!"

Fallen Angel

The apple of my eye!Here he was after ten long years of fervent prayers and hope.We were blessed with an angel.......our little angel!Words cannot express what I felt holding his delicate miniature form against my bosom.Doctors too heaved a sigh of relief as it was a complicated delivery......like he had fought against all odds to be with us......to be ours!

A few days later we brought our bundle of joy home.We wanted nothing but the very best for our Yuvaraj,the prince of our life.Our lives revolved around our Yuvi........all his needs,his demands were fulfilled.The best toys,the best clothes,the best school........all vied vied for his attention.Servants were at his beck and call and a chauffeured sedan was at his disposal. He grew up in the lap of luxury,his dad,after all was one of the six leading industrialists of the country.What he could not give him was time.meetings,seminars and over-seas visits ate into his family time.

I more than made up for Yuvi's dad's absence.I smothered him with unfailing,unquestioning love.All through his growing years i pampered him and spoilt him rotten.I saw that he got everything he desired.In the bargain I failed to realize how my little angel was turning into a devil incarnate.He took things for granted and caused great misery to those around him except for his doting mam who failed to see the Satan behind the angel's mask.

My Yuvi was quick to realize this weakness of mine.He had me securely wrapped around his little finger.I danced to his tunes. he back-answered the servants and at times hit them too.They were admonished by me for no fault of theirs.His friends at school and in the vicinity bore the brunt of his bullying.Complaints trickled in from his teachers about his undesirable behaviour but,I ,as always,supported him though deep inside I knew that he was at fault.Little Yuvi was now a strapping,handsome youngster. He drove drove with the speed of a formula One racer and had many collisions in the bargain.Thankfully he was unhurt and was bailed out of his misadventures due to his dad's connections.He clubbed wildly and his gang of friends smoked and boozed late into the morning hours.He was also suspended from his college and was now as free as a flying kite.......exploring the azure skies.

Then something happened............that changed my life forever.There was an uproar in the locality.A young girl from the neighbourhood building had been gang-raped.The ghastly deed was splashed all over the newspapers.She was raped repeatedly all through the night in a moving Innova after being dragged inside while on her way to her class in the evening.What was more shocking was that after the deed she was left for dead,thrown down a cliff.It was a miracle that she was alive,thanks to a good Samaritan who happened to pass by at that time.

The victim was in a coma and had severe injuries.The shell-shocked parents were too grief-stricken to answer questions put forth by the investigating team.It was a difficult case that would take probably months,maybe years to solve........if at all it was solved.Each day i saw the news and learnt that even after a week had past there was no breakthrough.Life for me was not the same..............I was hurting inside.I felt a stabbing pain inside my inner core when I saw the pictures of the girl in a comatose state.Why did I gasp for breath when i saw the empty ,pleading eyes of her parents???

Yes............!!!I was awake that dawn.I saw the silver Innova come to a screeching halt in the compound of our building.Out trundled five drunk lads who climbed on to the safety of the terrace.They were in a celebratory mood at that unearthly hour.I was awake as something was making me feel uneasy and I had heard and seen the unthinkable!The chilly breeze carried bits and pieces of their conversation my way......"The bitch.....acting too high and mighty........now it is safe,she would have recognised us otherwise........." And then I heard the unmistakable drawl of my Yuvi,"The F@#  bitch!!!Was a great lay though!"

Yes.!!!My Yuvi,my angel had committed this dastardly act along with his gang of friends.They had raped the girl and squeezed out the life in her.My angel...my Yuvi had turned into satan and I was a silent witness to his transformation from a bundle of joy to a fallen angel.Was this why there were complications during his delivery......Subtle signs to to tell me of the impending horrors??Could I live all my life with the bitter truth gnawing at my insides??

I had to take a decision..........the right decision.I wanted to be free from the shackles of love that had made my angel into a monster.Even as I picked up the receiver,I felt knots in my stomach and a piercing pain in my heart.I dialled the number mustering all the strength I could..........."Is this the Bandra police station???Sir,this is about that rape case near Yuvaraj Villa............"

My Amma!

What would we do without our ammas??????

My mother,as far as I remember,was always on her toes,

She was the perfect hostess,a ready listener to all our woes.

While I struggle every day to meet the demands of a daughter lone,

She handled us siblings five,cleaned,cooked and attended the phone.

Even today when Shreya is all praise for the so-called 'yummy' food I cook,

I long and crave for my mom's cooking which was beyond any recipe book.

My mom, a simple un-assuming lady,showed her iron will and strength,

When dear dad was diagnosed with cancer,she supported him and did not her 

despair vent.

Her social life was limited , duty to family was her call,

She and my dad together taught us to bear lifes' fall.

What can I give my mother who gave me roots and wings,

Even the most expensive gift is nothing compared to what a mother gives!

Kidspeak

We are little children,

With thinking minds that hold,

Dread and despair at the atrocities

In the world we see unfold.

First the attack on America,

The 'Jehad' by fundamentalist heads,

Then the US 'revenge' attacks

That left hundreds dead.

In this fight for supremacy

As warring countries strike,

Spare a thought for our feelings

This is not the world we would like.

We,the citizens of tomorrow,

Plead for a world of peace,

A world that thrives on unity

And compassion that will never cease.

Ban The Bomb!

This was written when there were many bomb blasts all over Mumbai city  after the Babri Masjid issue.

Another Monday at school

Back to my learning routine,

I remembered my mother dearest

As teacher explained about "Matrudin".

She'll be late today,she'd said

As she readied me for school in a hurry,

She had to go to Zaveri bazaar

To get my gold ear-rings;she said don't worry.

When half-way through recess break

My uncle picked me up from school,

All my curoius queries went unanswered

He was shell-shocked and had lost his cool.

I found myself at the Civil hospital

Witness to un-mentionable gory sights there,

Blood-soaked bodies vied for attention

Doctors,patients relatives-all in utter despair!

Through teary eyes I saw my mother dear,

Seeing her motionless form I let out a wail,

The world will never be the same for me again

At this young age I have seen humanity fail.

Even as Mumbai recovers from terrorist attacks

I wonder why the human race lives in fear,

"Ban the Bomb" pleads generation next

"We want to grow up ,not blow up!"the message is clear.

As I reconstruct my shattered life now

Believe me,life without a pillar of strength is tough,

Terrorism only breaks homes and hearts,

"Ban the bomb!" because even without them life is rough.

I Would Have Been......

(A poem on the disgrace of female foeticide and infanticide.
Raise your voice against female infanticide.)


I would have been a teacher, making learning full of fun.

Or an actress or director, entertaining everyone.

I would have been a judge, or lawyer in a court,

Maybe an agile sportswoman, excelling in some sport.

I would have been a member of the Indian Armed Force,

A Miss India or a model, attractive in every pose.

I would have been a writer, or a pilot growing wings,

Maybe a bold reporter, exposing scams through stings.

I would have been an environmentalist, or social-worker doing my bit,

An artist or dress-designer, making each dress a perfect fit.

I would have been a model sister,daughter,mother,wife,

Someone who brings happiness and does away with strife.

I would have done so much,made my parents proud,

With so many avenues to explore and stand out in a crowd.

I would have been the apple, of my parents' eye,

But alas, it is my parents, who willed that I should die!

'It will be a girl'-declared the sex-determination test,

And even before I was born, I was cruelly put to rest.

I would have been alive, what a life I would have lead,

But I am now an unwanted mass- unmoving , still, DEAD!

My Salaam To President Kalam

There is so much being written about who is the right person for the President's post.A.P.J Abdul Kalam has opted out of the fray but here is a poem I penned on him when he was the President of India.What a great personality,truly inspiring!

A patriotic Indian,a man with vision,
APJ Abdul Kalam,his intellect is legion.
'Simple living,high thinking' is what he believes,
The future of India in the youngsters he sees.

A literary genius,who loves home-cooked food,
With presidential duties, he has no time to brood.
A pure academician and intellect at heart,
Clear,impartial thinking sets him apart.

An able administrator,a rocket scientist beyond par,
From a developing nation he spread India's glory afar!
He inspired students through his splendid literary works,
It's he who gave us Agni and Prithvi when nuclear threat lurks.

Strong,powerful hands the reins of India hold,
Slowly,steadily steering her to be a nation bold.
In this world of today,India will surely rise,
Be a power to reckon with,irrespective of size!