Beti (Daughter) Poem by Chirag Kumar

I am waiting for the sun,
I am lurking in time,
so that you may step out
in a world free of crime.

But, the wait, seems endless,
though inevitable is the change,
the attitudes stand sublime.
All folks seem estranged.

A minor molestation here,
a petty rape there,
doesn't make a difference, they say,
for its happening everywhere.

Girls, don't you wear jeans,
don't you ask for freedom,
for you're second class mortals, they say,
born to be slaves under our fiefdom.

Patriarchy rules the roost here,
no question of equality.
In your exploitation and oppression, they say
lies our inner tranquility.

So stay within robes of uncertainty,
until such beliefs vanish undone.
And if impatience grips you, beti,
try coming here being a son.