Dilli Chalo

He carries the light
they tried to take away
a lantern where his head should be,
glowing not with fire
but with something older
resolve.
The fireflies come to him
not out of pity
but recognition
one light knowing another.
Bare back, bare feet,
the whole dark country behind him,
and still he walks.
Dilli Chalo
not just a march,
but a man
who became a flame
so others could find their way.
The darkness is vast.
He is vaster.
They came with nothing
and carried everything
the earth in their hands,
the sky in their chest,
light pouring from every wound.

Object number

011.079