Defeat Not An Option

My Country is in distress,
                                   My Jhansi, the land which
                                   I will protect - promised to 
                                          my late husband. 
                          These countrymen are like my children. 
                           I will defend them as I would shield 
                                                  my own.  
                   
                         I was a cheerful little girl, frolicking carefree
                                   and twirling blithe..among
                         the hills and dales. The ravishing young Prince
                               trotted by on the horseback, saw me.
                   
                                It was a love at first sight - I believe. 
                                        He went to my parents,
                                 and asked for my hand in marriage. 
                                      My parents blessed us for a 
                                         wonderful life together. 

                                But alas! My dearest husband fell sick
                       and passed away when our child was only an infant!
                                He believed in me, he trusted Jhansi
                                       would be safe in my care!

                                       Life was not easy for me. I 
                               became the "Rani", but foreign enemies 
                                  were lurking around! They wanted 
                                    to capture Jhansi..they thought 
                           a fragile woman was not capable of a fierce fight. 

                                     I am Lakshmibai, Rani of Jhansi! 
                                    I will shed every drop of my blood
                                       to fight for the country I love!
                                Here is the sword my husband carried...
                            Here is the horse loyal to him in every danger.
                 
                                      I glimpse a ruthless long battle 
                                     on our way, My people with me, 
                                                I am not alone!
                                  I will cherish their love, I pray to God,
                                            defeat is not an option. 

                               I am prepared to win or die - to lay my life, 
                              For my people, come death, come any strife!


Reference: Lakshmibai, the Rani of Jhansi was an Indian queen of the Maratha princely state of Jhansi in North India. She was one of the leading figures of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and became a symbol of resistance. (Wikipedia)



                                               January 10, 2022
                        For " My Significant 2021 Poem" Poetry Contest
                                          Sponsor: Beata Augustin
                                                 SECOND PLACE
           

Inspired by "Queen Of Jhansi" for  "L" Old Or New Poetry Contest (Lionhearted) :                                   
                                      Sponsor: Constance La France
                                             Posted on: 9/14/2021
Copyright © | Year Posted 2022


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Date: 1/28/2022 8:54:00 AM
Congratulations on your win. A "Wonderful" story/write. Love It. Have a blessed day.................
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Date: 1/25/2022 8:50:00 PM
Congrats! Thanks so much for sharing your heart through this dramatic monologue of yours earnestly expressed in your excellent poetic style. Indeed, thanks for your participation. Likewise, thanks for the information you included. God bless you.
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Ray Choudhury Avatar
Malabika Ray Choudhury
Date: 1/26/2022 5:19:00 AM
Thank you, Beata, for my placement. I feel honoured.
Date: 1/25/2022 7:48:00 PM
Jhansi Rani with rock like determination and courage continues to inspire generations. Her life story is beautifully captured ! Congrats Mala on your prestigious win in the contest!
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Ray Choudhury Avatar
Malabika Ray Choudhury
Date: 1/26/2022 5:19:00 AM
Thank you, Valsa. I feel honoured.
Date: 1/11/2022 3:42:00 PM
Strong and stirring poem, Mala. Very well done
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Ray Choudhury Avatar
Malabika Ray Choudhury
Date: 1/11/2022 4:02:00 PM
Thank you, Andrea. Dramatic Monologue is my favourite form - especially after reading Browning's. Choosing from 2021 poems was not easy, but I am glad to find a strong character.
Date: 1/10/2022 7:27:00 PM
Wonderful write, Malabika, a very worth placement. Blessings to a new year
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Ray Choudhury Avatar
Malabika Ray Choudhury
Date: 1/11/2022 3:59:00 PM
Thank you, Eve. Appreciate your kind comment.
Date: 1/10/2022 3:20:00 PM
This is an exceptional winning piece Mala. Lakshmibai, the Rani of Jhansi’s bravery reminds me a bit of the Welsh Queen Boudica. Congratulations on your worthy win. I truly enjoyed reading about her. Blessings xxoo
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Ray Choudhury Avatar
Malabika Ray Choudhury
Date: 1/10/2022 3:45:00 PM
Thank you, Connie. Lakshmibai is my favourite character in Indian history. Really appreciate your kind and thoughtful comment.
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