Maharashtra Drought - Reading a farmer's mind!

The Indian state of Maharashtra is facing a drought of gigantic proportions. Vast sections of the state are reeling under drought. 

The deputy Chief Minister of the State, Ajit Pawar, visited the affected areas. He was once Water Resources Minister of the State and, thanks to some shocking decisions taken in his time and large-scale corruption, is largely responsible for the current state of affairs.

In a speech during his recent visit, let alone being of any help or support to the locals, all he could do was to mock at their situation. He made a shocking statement saying something like "What do you expect me to do? Urinate to fill the dams?"

THIS is the level of sensitivity of some of our politicians! This remark just exemplifies the huge chasm that exists between those in power and those on the ground.

I tried to put myself in a farmer's position to imagine what he must be going through. This poem is a result - a reflection of his mind.

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Kadakti hai dhoop

Pyaase hain honth

Bache hain bilbilaate

Par ek boond paani nahin

Patte hain sookhe

Daraar hain zameen par

Baarish ki nahin aasha

Haalaat ye insaani nahin

Kis ko sunaayen dukhda

Kya kya hum bataayen

Aankhon mein khud dekh lo

Kya dikhti hairaani nahin

Aaye the sheher se wo

Dekhne haalat apni

Hans diye munh par wo

Jaise unki pareshaani nahin

Jald aayega wo din bhi

Baari hogi hamaari

Dikhayenge unko hum

Chalegi unki man-maani nahin

Translation

The sun beats down relentlessly

The lips are parched

The children cry non-stop

But there's not one drop of water

The leaves have all dried up

There are cracks on the ground

There's no hope of rain

These are inhuman conditions

Who do we tell our tale to

What all do we tell them

If you just look into my eyes

Can't you see for yourself my misery?

He had come from the city

To check out our condition

He laughed at us to our face

As if it is none of his problem

That day is not far away

When it will be our turn

Then we will show you

You cannot always get your way!!!

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