Forgotten-Our Indigenous Treasure

By Ritisha Kapur

Is it a distant memory?

Or are we lost in reverie

Is it a long forgotten dream?

Or are the rays of illumination waiting to gleam

Is it an obscure thought?

Or intangible knowledge, that cannot be taught

Is it a diminished light, we cannot see?

Or ethereal words exuding glee.

My friend, do you not see what we have mislaid

This is your country’s history which you are trying to evade!

Our culture’s deep roots,

Have now been covered with soot.

Our age old customs and daily rituals;

Our hierarchical society and practices which are spiritual;

Our evergreen dance forms and musical renditions;

Our stupendous monuments and primordial traditions.

Our four Vedas and Upanishads guide us till date,

The Quran, the Bible, the teachings of Mahavira and Siddhartha further elucidate.

The motto of Satyameva Jayate embossed in our minds,

And the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, welcoming all mankind.

From the indomitable Himalayas, which protect us from harm

To the breathtaking Deccan Plateau, which offers surplus land to farm.

The intricately designed Brihadishwara Temple and Sanchi Stupa

To our ever famous Taj Mahal and the Statue of Standing Buddha.

This is what we are

India- a bright shining star!

Our hearts permeate with the spirit of unity

And our diversity emanates from our individuality.

A land of great treasure,

Our heritage so rich, that it cannot be measured.

Then tell me, why do you forget where you’re from and ape the West

Is our Mother India, not the best?

By Ritisha Kapur