Meenas PoemsBeautifully stringed mango leaves
hung on the entry door
a sign of welcome in Indian houses
put up during auspicious occasions
they look so enticing and seem to greet
a charm spreads 
with an extension
as they dangle in the gentle breeze
seem to beckon you with a warm smile
address you in a pleasant voice
“come home”. “come home”
“you are most welcome”
a solicitation with a cordiality
never any human could express
a gesture cannot be imitated
practiced from time immemorial
Tulasi leaves are considered holy
the small little leaves they are
grow on a plant not big
spread a grace
send an aroma pleasant
they, in my part of the land
are worshipped with piety
by women with ardent devotion
tended with care in a pot
having elaborate designs
resemble a stupa like structure
every morn the women water the plant
keep sindhoor and draw kolams
enhancing the divine charm
they perform an aarathi with dedication
go around the stupa thrice with eyes closed
prostrate before the Tulasi 
plant
a belief that has been bequeathed by elders
followed by generation after generation
well, the basil gives prosperity to her devotees
that be the magnificence of the plant
Meenas Poems 