To the women
(Balamani Amma)

Yesterday,
you were lighting lamps
to remove darkness of near
and dear,ghee-wicks spread
lights in temples
in kitchen,
and bedrooms.
None saw the face of the one
who lighted the lamp.
Face turned down,
the kumkum alone sparkled!

Today,
you light electric lamps
in reading rooms,
homes,roads,factories
offices
for neighbours
for the world.
Face upturned
you extend hands
which like sunrays
spread your inner light
of knowledge!