The Election Debate

Once a Chaiwala asked,

The Shehzada for a match,

Of their wits and skill

for the public to feel.

As the debate began,

the Chai wala asked,

What do you know of poverty ?

Have you ever slept hungry?

What do you know of struggle?

Ever worked under the scorching sun?

You lived a life of luxury,

now you fool people with your dress.

The Shehzada had no answer.

Did he know poverty ?

Had he Struggled ?

Was he helpless ?

He stood up, and said

“I detest power.

Yet I contest for it”

I have seen my generation die before me.

They were killed by people of the state,

Yet I pledge my service to them.

I have lit their funeral pyre,

Lived in fear of life,

not from hunger but from assassins.

Yes, I have struggled,

but little will the masses

know of it.

© Nirmalya Panigrahi