Ketchup Ali Poem by Sumita Jetley

In the early light of dawn,
Ali stirs the pot with care,
His weathered face, content and calm,
Shows lines of work, yet free from despair.

A gentle smile, his eyes aglow,
In the kitchen warm and bright,
He hums a tune, the fire low,
As tomatoes simmer in the light.

His kurta worn, his hands are rough,
Stained with the marks of days gone by,
But in his heart, it's enough,
For joy is found in what he tries.

The air is filled with scents so sweet,
Of labor mixed with quiet peace,
Ali knows this work, though steep,
Brings him love that will not cease.

In each jar sealed, a piece of heart,
A legacy of simple cheer,
For in his craft, he plays his part,
And finds his purpose, true and clear.

So in the warmth of morning's rise,
Ali works with steady hands,
Creating more than meets the eyes,
Building joy where love expands.