Didda: The Great Warrior Of Kashmir Poem by Namita Rani Panda

In Kashmir vales where crystal clear rivers freely flow
And snow-capped mountain peaks gorgeously glow
There born in 10th century a girl with indomitable spirit
Who rose above deformity with her Himalayan grit
Inspite of her parents' scornful spite for being lame
She bloomed like a lotus without shame
As free and bold as a mountain river
She decided her destiny by breaking all oppressive barriers
At twenty-six she became the most loved queen of Ksemagupta, the king of Kashmir
A spectrum of outstanding character she was with military prowess, political acumen and also a great warrior
People called the king Diddaksema for her visible magical spell
The coins he minted with 'Diddaksemagupta Deva' inscribed on them: A rare thing for the queen's heart to swell
But when the king died as fate stored for her something different
She defied the horrific Sati system to become her son's regent
When the nobles scoffed of a woman's rule
She crushed her foes with iron fist who sought her fall
She quelled the courtiers' whispers and crushed rebellious cries
No conspiracy or revolt could escape her falcon eyes
Though she's called the Catherine of Kashmir for her ruthlessness
Four long decades she solely stood strong against the invaders as a fierce lioness
A sovereign not by birth but by strong resolve
To a magnificent stature did she valiantly evolve
For inventing the first commando force and counter intelligence structure
And formed the deadliest guerrilla warfare
The battle of Afganisthan till date boldly announces her story of valour
Where thirty-eight thousand horrifying Afghan soldiers
Were miserably defeated by her five hundred bravest soldiers
An epitome she was of patience and calmness in toughest situation
An efficient diplomate in politics and administration
A passionate patron of art and promoter of education
Remembered also for her generous donations
She freed women from the oppressive societal norms and traditions
And opened doors for them to pursue their dreams and passions
Though disabled, she defied all age-old prejudice and patriarchy
And as the most dreaded queen established her mighty monarchy
A lady she was quite ahead of her time and space
Who used every hurdle as a stepping stone to glory with unfathomable grace
Didda, an embodiment of Shakti, a highly liberal queen and regent
Who laid foundation to today's women's rights and empowerment
Her struggle and achievements are infinite source of inspiration for every age
In Indian history her indelible name is inscribed on a golden page