On my visit to grandpa’s farm house

I found one decrepit crafted carriage

kept in the corner of the frontage

that had poles on both sides

but no wheels to my surprise

It was old but had a strong mold

the outer had intricate designs

the inner had remnant of sequins

robust it was and seemed replete with stories

those lay hidden in its folds and pleats

looking at my tender and curious eyes

grandpa spoke -“singing paeans won’t suffice

the services rendered by this device

the litter drawn by men has withstood tests of time

from kings to ordinary folks it has serviced with a smile

this palanquin brought home your mother after wedlock

carried her to the maternity home and you were born

our world was lighted with the nascent sun.”

                                                                                                                       ~ Sujata Dash

                                                                                                                       Bhubaneswar, India