The Corona Warriors

It’s a sheer coincidence that I came across this image on this auspicious day of Janmashtami, a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of God Krishna.

The legend is that Vasudeva had carried his newborn son, Krishna across the raging Yamuna river in the midnight for leaving him with his dear friend Nand in Gokul to save him from the wrath of the terror king, Kansa.

The picture shows how a doctor, corona warrior has played the role of Vasudeva to save lives by risking his own life. I don’t know who painted this picture. It may be the artist’s tribute to corona warriors, but I give a big salute to him for such an imaginative piece.

On this occasion, I submit a few humble lines written in the honour of corona warriors–

Without knowing
what shall come the way
on the platters of threats
from the unseen
that can’t be pinned down for its sin

They’re waging war for the survival
on the non-appreciative virus
with sweet sweat of labour
and dedication
with kit on as the shield of Sheshnag…

Transparency of their whites
make them transparent
with the inevitable risk
but can’t permit the bubbles of lives
to be breached…

The night is upon them
with thoughts scrambling for existence
teasing and tossing the mood
into submission,
giving in is easier
but not an option for the saviours,
the warriors…

They are adding mute words silently
to silence and helplessness of thousands
who see an image of God in them…

Happy Janmashtami to all of you…Jai Shri Krishna 🙏

–Kaushal Kishore