SHE AND HER TRIBE

On her marriage she got 101 sarees- the weakness of her tribe
Happy, merry and young
enjoying all the ceremonies
never realizing what was happening-
her age, main culprit- she was simply 12.

When playing was her only occupation
and responsibilities were unknown,
she was tied to the gorgeous drape of 12 yard
“saree” - the only weakness.

As days went by-
basking in the glory of her new found status
enjoying every moment of attention
yet, unaware
after all it was no more her life.

Holding one by one all her possession
beaming with happiness
she wore each one - so typical of her tribe.

Months passed and before she realized,
tragedy struck her door.
Her husband died.
And with him died all colours of her life
so sudden - so unnatural.

Those very 101 sarees became her burden
Only one colour still remained
White - just white.
Accompanied by a whole list of curses, accusations and
the naked eyes of lust.

Since then she greets thousands of deaths
silently- patiently- so very typical of her tribe.