Connaught Place
A decadent backyard
dug up, war-torn
without a war
full of flesh, garbage
and machines
starched bones
covered in human skin
scattered on the cracked sidewalks
waiting for redemption
nearby stray dogs in slumber.
Qutub Minar
Soaring
poetry in the sky
unrivalled flight
or a feast
a toast to time
a tower of victory
or a calligraphic feat.
Alai Minar
Unfinished emblem
of human ambition
unquenched thirst
of an earnest emperor
I could not become
the Qutub's rival.
Lal Qila
Fading reflection
in mirage
of Delhi
conundrum
of a nation's destiny
a prison
a passage
a pilgrimage.
Delhi Auto Rickshaw
Green on yellow
triangle on wheels
criss-crossing Delhi
as a kite soaring
against the wind
carrying the city
on wings.
Yamuna
Withdrawn and sulky
I flow past Delhi
like dark silver
caressing the city shores
draining darkness
from Delhi's soul.
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Abhay Kumar is an Indian poet, artist and diplomat. He has published five collections of poetry viz. Enigmatic Love (2009), Fallen Leaves of Autumn (2010), Candling the Light (2011), Remains (2012) and Seduction of Delhi. He has been honoured with the SAARC Literature Award for his contribution to contemporary South Asian Poetry and nominated for the Pushcart Prize 2013.
