The Land of Dawn-Lit Mountains

By Tanie Natung

Beyond the vast plains of the Brahmaputra,

There lies the Land of Dawn-Lit Mountains,

In an ancient country once called Bharat,

Where the first sunrays kiss the waking Earth.

The mountains high embrace the blue sky,

Snow-capped peaks don their crowns of white,

Misty clouds cradle the tranquil, majestic heights,

And gentle winds caress layered hills with grace.

The unending vistas of deep blue mountains,

And lush green valleys stretch far beyond sight;

Thundering waterfalls crash from dizzying heights,

And fiery rivers rush down with potent surge.

Birds sing happy songs from evergreen forests,

Streams hum the rhythm of cascading flows,

Valleys echo the laughter of innocent souls,

And fish dance sprightly in clear river waters.

Chants of priests fill the evenings of villages,

As people sing folklore of their proud past;

Rhythms of dances awaken the drowsy Earth,

And colors of dresses outshine the rainbow.

Festivities bloom each month in diverse tribes,

Rich culture and vibrant traditions abound,

Fifty tribes in harmony live side by side,

United in pride, with no sign of conflict.

This precious land beats within our hearts,

No threat can touch our cherished crown;

What we wear is pride upon our chests,

And ready to die a thousand deaths to defend.

By Tanie Natung