Prafulla Kumar Mohanty's
DRAUPADI - XXII
Draupadi looked amazed
so much splendour, such a rich display
what imagination has conceived this dome!
The entire palace, the streets, rows of houses
all these were covered by a lamplit dome
gems glowed to brighten the smiles
of artisans busy in making Kampilya
an elysium of seven
layered beauty.
The foyer was a rectangle of orbit order
golden thrones were lined up in rows for guests,
all royal, heroic and bold to win the garland.
Draupadi's garland, with triumphant smirk.
Draupadi's heart sank to imagine the scene.
Will the archer win her heart or just
stringed flowers from my hands?
Father called - See my darling daughter
how my kingdom smiles with swelling joy
to send my most accomplished child
to a hero's palace
which shall be graced
by my heart jewel's first ringing steps.
Father, you have lavished so much on this -
What did you say? Spent so much!
Why not - I am Drupad, and my daughter
will marry the Sandipani test cracker
your husband and my son-in-law
would be the greatest in Aryabarta
and I shall have my revenge!
Is it only for revenge Father
Do you not wish your daughter
to live in peace, love and glory?
Drupad held Draupadi close to his heart
in emotion choked voice he said:
My sweet child, do you think I'll
give you away to some mendicant,
be assured my love you'll have
the best Prince of this great country.
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