Saris

Colourful Saris

How magnificent the colours
Of the women on the street,
As they go about their business
In the moist oppressive heat.

I have seen them on Chowringhee
Push their way through teeming throng,
Striking figures in their saris,
Sandaled feet, they glide along.

Brightest green or deepest purple,
Crimson, lemon or snow white,
Colours plain or multi-patterned,
How magnificent the sight!

Whether strolling on the Maidan,
In Sealdah at rush hour,
Waiting flights at Dum Dum airport,
Brightly coloured as the flowers.



(Notes: In Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), Chowringhee is one of the main streets; The Maidan is a large open park space in the centre of the city; Sealdah is one of the two main train stations.)