Poetry Forum

[ String of Tanka ]
I.

amidst the ripples
they chant Sanskrit hymns
hands folded
facing
the first light


II.

vague sun
mirrors on waist-high waters
all around
waves form
waves die



III.

Howrah Bridge
shrouded in mist
a multitude prays
an artist slowly paints
the third eye


IV.

offerings float
along banks of Ganga
early morning radio
crackles from a distance
one tanpura resonates

[ Mahalaya - an auspicious occasion observed seven days before the Durga Puja, and heralds the advent of Durga. On this day, people offer Tarpan in memory of their deceased forefathers. The banks of River Ganges in India are peopled with many priests seen busy performing Tarpan / Pitri Yajna . Pitris are forefathers who dwell in the Pitriloka. They possess the power of clairvoyance and clairaudience. When Mantras are recited, they exercise tremendous influence through their vibrations. The Pitris hear the sounds through the power of clairaudience and they are pleased. They bless those who offer the oblation. In Sraaddha, the essence of food offerings is taken up by the Sun’s rays to Suryaloka and the departed souls are pleased with the offerings.

On this day, the eyes on Durga idols get painted.

tanpura - is a long necked plucked lute, a stringed instrument found in different versions.
]

Aru

You have some beautiful images here and I like the way the water element, be it the banks that contain it or mist that is free of those boundaries is present through the piece. Although unstated I imagine the air would be fragrant too, though not on account of the ganga being smoked I´m only messing I know which context you have it in here
Great visuals and sounds that compliment very well, I enjoyed finding myself there in the mist of my mind.

thanks

Tim

This is one of my own favourite pieces, Dante. I was on two minds on my unconventional approach to Tanka in the first two, but later decided to go with it. This is a re-write of the one scripted last year. BTW, the air at the Ganga has less fragrance, and more mist, I believe! Thanks.

"an artist slowly paints the third eye" now this is deep sir.


In all a deep reflection of what you see and feel as your poems always are
touching You as it were........nice images

thanks

x

Thank you for the "sir"!

Loved the feel of your poem wonderful words nicely said, loved "vague sun mirrors on waist high waters." What a lovely image x

Thanks Susan for your reply. Smiles.

love this life of Prana ............................

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx