Aparna Pathak

To My Dear Venky

That day, when Panditji was chanting mantras to invoke Agni Devta I was not able to match the rhythm. I was desperately trying to read the glances you both were exchanging while taking the vows of wedding.

first light. .  .
glimpse of your name 
in henna
on her palm
and her name on yours

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Notes: Agni devta =fire god; Panditji = priest.

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About the Author

Aparna Pathak’s achievements include “Haiku Master of the Month,” NHK World Haiku Masters (April & November 2016); third place, UHTS Samurai Haibun contest (2016); shortlisted in Touchstone Awards for Individual Poems (2016); first place in the Sonic Boom Senryu Contest (2018).

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