Voice Of The Subaltern

Niqaab Talks

How ridiculed I was,
And how suffocating?
Well, is that not what you say
You feel?

But hadn't you felt the gentle breeze swaying beneath.
Yes. Those who wear me knows
Even if those who just see me blame!

You said I was scary.
But, Do you fear me now?
For God's sake No, you don't.
You told, I had security problems
What if I disguise someone else.
What if I hide some weapons under? But for now

You are safe to sit beside me
Relieved to see me.
I won't let the chance of a
Drizzle of sneeze fall on you

I am praised to be a protective
Shield than a hidden threat.
Yes, You are welcome.

And had I smothered you, like the one you wear now?
Haven't you been able to smell those sweet laddoos and jalebi?
Withering its aura underneath.

I am a veil. I know I hide you
But do not suffocate you
For you felt the gentle air
Disseminating like a wild ghost
Underneath the darkness.
But now, you wear a mask that
Strips your mouth altogether!
Don't they?

I am black or rather you choose me to be.
But that's okay. I am proud to
Hide the beauty inside.
Not to give way for a colour difference to the black faces
You kill today!

Today you never ask me,
Why I am worn. Do you?
You no longer stare me
As if to see a scarecrow.
Thank you. But know this!

Tomorrow or the day after,
Your masks will get folded
Safe in your cupboard
And you will feel the freedom
You demand.

But I will be worn again.
Will you stare at me again!?
Hope you feel safe with me
And look at me with compassion

Some wear me with love.
Some don't.
I am not forced upon anyone
(I wish I was not!)
I am a choice!
Not used out of choice
Like the one you wear now.