JAYANTA MAHAPATRA 'S MANTRA

Revels and revelation
in mystery
of strange silences
centuries old divinities
spells,
wild running initiates
refreshing Ganges waters
encircled worshipers,
coiled as monks
with blood orange smells
from Darjeeling teas
cradling songs
in chasms of transparency
from snake-like cells
mystifying the serenity
of flute players
in underground caves
as a woman offers relief
to a visiting poet
from her own long suffering.