Jyoti Shekar

I see you, I like you, I think you are nice,

So when my parents ask me if I want to marry you, I don’t even think twice.

I say yes and immediately start dreaming of our lives together,

Sometimes romantic, sometimes mundane,

Sometimes tensed, but always filled with love and laughter.

Finally the day arrives, and I enter your house amidst much fanfare,

I slowly set about making it our home, and do my share.

I adapt to the timelines, I adapt to the food,

I adapt to the routine, do my duties and generally be good.

All I expect in return is love, respect and a good life,

And to be accepted in my new home as a daughter, sister and wife.

My parents gave me a lot of stuff – jewellery, TV, car and other stuff,

So that I can keep my head high in the new home, but it is simply not enough.

I am not allowed to watch the TV, wear the jewellery or drive the car,

I still think it’s okay and I look to you for some love and care.

I am not allowed to dress the way I want,

I still think it’s okay and it’s a small price to pay to avoid your parents’ taunt.

I have to cook food and clean the house,

I do it without complain, but you don’t like my cooking,

I still think it’s okay and I look to you for some words of understanding.

I have to change my eating habits, and I do it gladly,

I have to restrict my phone calls and outings, I do it gladly,

I still think it’s okay and I wait for some warmth and comfort from you.

Then I am scolded, and I am taunted,

Suddenly my skin colour and my body is not good enough,

And then I have to bring more money to compensate for all that,

I finally open my eyes and think it’s NOT OKAY,

I DON’T NEED YOU THAT BAD.

*All images used in this article are either Eyra’s own design or widely and freely available on the internet.*