The essence of being a woman: A poem by Heera Nawaz

Feminists rule the roost for they initiate peace and love

the powerful species, the game changers and the fair gender,

the ones who bring beauty and sparkle to our dull, drab world,

and who despite possessing strength, are also soft and tender.

Women seek validation in their varied overrated relationships,

One should only view Sanjay’s Padmaavat in the movie scene

to witness the strength, beauty & caliber of a sacrificial woman,

who commits jauhar to save the honour of her being a Queen

But, yet, on the sidelines, women consists not just of Padmavati,

but of the thousands of discriminated women who suffer & die,

the Nirbhayas who get assaulted, raped, tortured and tormented,

my heart burning as I see these victims who break down and cry.

Ranging between the two extremes of Padmavatis & Nirbhayas

is seen exploitation in almost all walks of a woman’s life,

whether it be at the highest hierarchy of power in profession

or whether the woman tends to home and hearth as a wife.

We women should have vision of a day encompassing equality,

not just for one day, but for us to cherish throughout the year,

for if this can be guaranteed and nailed, then we feel validated

and our efforts worth the trials, tests – and each heartfelt tear.