Sudipta Mishra, Puri, 12 November 2023
In the dusky night sans the glory of the moon
The Earth glows with chains of light
Like a garland, diyas adorn lonely twilights
Folks from all walks of life come and join the glaring sight.
The waiting is over for the helpless
With the grace of the Goddess,
Evil will be repelled soon
The air is set with glaring fireflies.
Everywhere, there is pleasure.
Crackling fireworks signal the victory of good over power
Demons fade away in the dark sky with the presence of the Goddess
Ma Kali adorns the stages.
By affirming our lost faith in goodness
Diva assures her mighty prowess
Chanting of mantras echoes everywhere to purify the air
Dazzling lanterns reaffirm the ray of hope
By lighting the lamp, the young bride prays in a distant village
Angels from Paradise bridge the gap to witness the splendour.
Divine beings grace the celebrations
Through prayers, ancestors are pleased
And triumph of truth over injustice signals a change
With the advent of the wintry waves
Days become short with long nights
Illuminating lamps bring glory to each cottage of our nation.
Here comes the festival of lights
Gifts, sweets, and love flood from everywhere
Rangoli from each floor doubles the warm desires
On the banks of the Ganges, Diyas sparkle like a cluster of stars!
In warm embrace, “dancing souls” celebrate the joy of being together
Let each star reflect and twinkle like a bright flower
While multiplying the glory of tiny earthen lamps
Shiny stars sparkle in the sky like bright crackers
Let us spread the hues of love and care!
