July 12
As villages, societies, and surroundings change,
A person’s character often rearranges.
The ties with cows, dung, fields, and clay,
Gradually fade and drift away.
When simple Siliya from the village
Is sent to the city to be educated,
The girl who once spoke in rustic tones
Now says, “Yes,” and “What?” with polished notes.
The moment she turns modern and smart,
In Zoom meetings she plays her part:
“Okay,” “Thank you,” “Sorry,” “Hi,”—
“Am I audible or not?” she cries.
Education changes not just speech,
But thoughts and lifestyles within its reach.
“Please unmute,” “Turn on your mic,” they say—
Only then can conversations find their way.
Mayonnaise, momos, pizza, burgers,
Sushi, omelettes, continental flavors,
Native and foreign chops and cutlets too—
A whole new menu comes into view.
The sari-clad Siliya now appears
In shorts, tops, pullovers, and trousers.
Her long braid is cut away at last;
A boy-cut makeover changes her past.
This complete makeover is called “modern” now;
Suits and dupattas seem old somehow.
The sari is branded “village wear”—
Such notions quietly fill the air.
Until she wears fashionable shorts,
She remains just “Siliya” in the crowd.
But the moment she changes her style,
She’s called “Sis” or “Sil”—modern and proud.
— Vidya
Translated by chat gpt
vidus 
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