By Dr. Thara Jyothi
As first light dawned, and I drew life's first breath
At the window, a shadow danced—a sacred stealth
Durga’s idol passed; its presence whispered low
The bells resounded, prayers rose—and my first tears fell like rain
I cried, my heart moved, by the crowd’s reverent sigh
Devotees of Durga, bold and strong
Their eyebrows furrowed, a hint of dismay
“A girl child born,” they whispered on this sacred day
I cried aloud—a warrior’s primal scream
A vow to defy the doubts, a heart that would beam
With determination’s fire, I slowly learned to stand
And took my first step, with a courageous hand
Each step a victory, each fall a lesson gained
I rose again, unbroken, my spirit unchained
With plate and spoon, I took my first stride
Dolls clutched tight—my childhood’s gentle pride
But then I heard the words, a lifelong refrain:
“You are a girl—play with dolls; cars are for boys to obtain”
In tender teenage years, I felt the weight of a thousand gazes
Piercing my fate—eyes that watched, judged, and whispered low
A burden I carried as I learned to grow
I shattered societal chains; I broke free from the mold
I am human, not defined by gender—young and bold
I yearn to learn, to soar to great heights
To drive fast cars, to touch the sky, to shine with all my lights
No boundaries can hold me; no norms can define
My dreams, my desires, my soul, my heart, my mind
I will spread my wings; I will chase my dreams
I will be the master of my fate—my spirit beams
They seethed with frustration as my confidence shone bright
Their words—a desperate attempt to snuff out my light
They hissed with venom and spite
But I stood firm, unbroken—a beacon in flight
Their threats—a rabid dog’s snarl; I refused to fear
For I know my worth—my soul, my heart, my spirit, my dear
Even in death, I’d rise again—a phoenix born from the ashes
And choose to be a girl again and again, till eternity is sworn
I won’t be swayed by regret—for I am clear
Who else but me to respect, protect, and hold dear?
I choose to be a girl again and again, forever and always—my spirit’s refrain
I am Durga—fierce and strong, earth, wind, fire, and life’s essence
I am the lioness’ roar—wild and free—a guardian, a guide
Here to defend, nurture, provide
“I will be a girl, again and again—forever and always