Chitralekha

Having painted on both eyes
suddenly vanished
Chitralekha the enchantress

She planted
in heart
the garden of Babylon

It is swaying
in heart
heavenly flowers are blooming

Everyday we hear
melodious calls of painted birds

You are the gardener
of the hanging garden
I know you won't come back again

Yet amidst the clouds
will be shining
the radiant smile of the sun




(Original Assamese poem titled "Chitralekha")

Note: Chitralekha was the boon companion of Usha,
the daughter of the King Baan of the Sonitpur kingdom
in Assam (India) of the Mahabharata era.
Chitralekha had magical skills at painting and portraiture in particular.

Tr. © Nirendra Nath Thakuria