The Gulmohar Fancy

By - Priya Saxena

The Gulmohar blossoms
still fascinate my senses,
as they used to in my childish days.

The quivering
crimson petals in the playful breeze,
like several tiny sparks enkindled at once;
burning ruthlessly…high and low,
casting its summery spell
along the city streets.

The early rising
chants from its infinite boughs
haven of bereft hearts and wandering thoughts.
Hope for homeward retiring herds
after the day’s work.

Often
in the cozy afternoons
it reminded me of a loving granny
in printed floral sari, telling tales of
brave princes and pious kings
to the familial seeds.