62. India without Indians
I’m an Indian by birth
But I’m afraid of its citizens.
In Mumbai, I’m beaten up
Doubting my nationality, I am called an UP wala.
In Madras I’m a Hindi wala
Punjabis consider me uncultured
The same as almost all other places
Within this country's borders
21 states and crores of people
Biharis, Bengalis, Marathis, Gujaratis
And the bunch of Southwala
Only when I step outside
I become an India wala.
Where we all share the same dreams and fears
Regardless of our skin colour or origin
Do join me in believing in this reality
Many believe me
Leaving the shore to contribute
Other nations’ Gross Domestic Product
Like me