Waiting For The Moon Rise Poem by Bishnupada Sethi

Clad in fine clothing
Red and green,
Her hands neatly coloured with henna,
With jewellery on a graceful forehead
Hooked Nose and gorgeous ears-
She appears like a bride.

Since the sun rise
She hasn't touched any food or water,
Yet she looks sublime-
Hunger and thirst don't disturb her.

Kept aside a well decorated plate with
Vermilion, rice, sieve and incense stick;
She has lighted an earthen lamp
Illuminating the small space on the house top.

But moon delays to appear in the northeast sky
And plays hide and seek with the clouds:
Her patience is put to test.
She is steadfast, unrelenting-
The moon should come out in full.

She has imbibed the lore-
Behind the ancient tradition.
She has faith on herself.
Her love grows more intense
She draws strength from inside.

The beloved is waiting too!
He has prayers on the lips.
He is witnessing tonight
The showers of love
Falling from the countless stars
And every nook of the sky.