That Was My House
(I had spent my childhood in Kashmir/India.)
Once upon a time
that house
housed my home
narrow lanes led to outside roads
which I used to roam.
Once upon a time
that house
woke up with temple bells
loud prayers stirred the souls
with blowing of conch shells.
Once upon a time
that house
had an open window
cool breeze refreshed me
with the chirrup of a sparrow.
Once upon a time
that house
overlooked the river
I could jump and swim
like an expert diver.
Once upon a time
that house
had a long kaeni (balcony)
made all the children play together
by tough grand old Kakni. (grand mother)
Once upon a time
that house
basked under the sun
warmth spread to people around
everyone used to have fun.
Once upon a time
that house
witnessed many celebrations
gupp bacche/bhand and melodious Henze*
were hallmark of jubilations.
That house, like a dream to me now
and may remain that for ever
its indelible impression, admit I must
can never be erased, my dear.
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poem by Tribhawan Kaul
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