LatinosUSA

right across my window
an election rally swells,
loudspeakers blaring impossible promises,
feet lifting in dhamaal rhythms,
dust learning to dance,
celebrating triumph.

just behind…
a funeral procession
waits
with measured patience
outside the crematorium gates,
bearing a loved one
towards fire,
towards release.

the air thickens…
with smells of withered marigolds,
tuberose,
sweetness of sandalwood paste,
infused with sulphurous smoke

and for a moment
the living and the dead
move in the same procession
one seeking power,
the other peace,
while the drums continue,
drowning the difference.

Dhamaal – high-energy, fast-paced drumming