DRAUPADI - IV

 

Prafulla Kumar Mohanty's

DRAUPADI - IV

DRAUPADI IN ROYAL GEAR

 

No Madam Princess, not that one

he is a charger yet untamed

you better start with this pony

Draupadi laughed - thank you

for not pointing at the mare.

 

Draupadi selected the shining black

stout horse in the stud,

ignoring stallions and other breeds

She stepped on the stirrup and heaved herself

before she settled on the saddle

the charger started galloping

ignoring the Jockey's shouts,

disappeared from sight in no time.

The servants panicked and ran behind

but Draupadi  knew what she was doing

the fire born had fire in her

to face odds and challenges.

 

Her brother Dhristhadyumna saw her fly past. 

the enclosure where arrow shooting

and sword play were in full swing.

He admired and asked the worried man

not to bother, she is after all a Princess.

 

The horse flew on yamuna banks

Draupadi held the reins tight

she had no fear or fright

the charger was happy

to carry a woman of stature

so determined and graceful,

Draupadi was happy she could

turn the jungles into welcome

roads leading up to life's

magnificent display of beauty

in variegated measures.

 

After about two hours she was sighted

to the delight of the nervous Jockey

the horse was on a trot fully tamed

Draupadi alighted at the shooting zone

she asked for a bow and quiver

her brother gave her a lance

and they practised intently

when the sun peaked at mid day,

the training session was adjourned

the brother-sister duo returned

chatting happily for rest and refreshment.