The Banyan Tree Poem by Namita Rani Panda

The banyan tree that stands upright in my garden
With a green crown like a queen
Stands steadfast, splendid and stronger
Like me rooted firmly to the soil
With so many aerial prop roots
As I'm rooted to my family and friends
In spite of limitless trials and turmoil.
I too am the queen of my kingdom
Though my feet, at every step, are chained with irrational customs and traditions.
The leaves, large, leathery, glossy and green,
The young ones with a reddish tinge
Inhale tirelessly the breezy wind
To fan the tired travellers and quench others' hunger.
My each moment and every ounce of strength
I spent and burn for their comfort and contentment.
The tree bears without any complaint
The scorching summer, chilly winter and heavy shower
But keeps ever ready for others a cool shady bower.
People pelt stones at it with selfish intention
But it gifts them with figs and showers affection.
In stress and strain I remain cool and stubborn
And keep smiling inspite of unbearable pain,
Both blame and praise are my priceless gain
As their comfort is my life's sole aim.

We both know our freedom and limitations,
We never stretch arm to touch the sky
As we know it's too vast and high.
We are born to live and die for others,
To give only with no expectations is our only pleasure.

So at night we silently look at the twinkling stars
To summon strength to scatter selflessly rays of love forever!