Poem Image
October 01, 2025

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