A Bonded Labour Poem by Bireswar Halder

Ah, this life, a bonded labour!
Bogged down by this deadly employer.
I am buried in my sweaty bones day and night
Alas! When will there be a relief from the plight?

My voice stilled in fear of whip.
I am helpless and silently weep.
Left emaciated with stale food
I bear the whip of this stone-heart so rude

Engaged as maid being teenaged girl,
With a smiling face I am to serve all
No sympathy from anywhere for this orphan,
Don't know when will be the salvation.

Dear mom, I am alone on this earth,
Why did you sell me after my birth?
For whom I am to suffer this tyranny
My employer, mom you or my destiny?