Chitrangada (Mythological Monologues #3)

I had heard about the magic of love

Umpteen times since childhood,

Yet I never envisioned that

Love will make me forget myself one day.

I - Chitrangada, the warrior princess of Manipur

Who knew nothing more than warfare 

and caring about her kingdom,

Has abandoned her people today, 

Borrowed beauty for a year

From the God of Love

To win the heart of Arjun. 

Yes, I won my beloved's heart 

But lost my purpose and individuality.

In the fear of being rejected by my beloved,

I gave up my identity of the warrior princess

Who did not have mesmerizing eyes

And a fair complexion

To win the heart of mighty Arjun. 

The year of borrowed beauty

Was coming to a close,

People in Manipur were praying

For their warrior princess to return

And save them from enemies. 

I was in a dreadful quandary

Fighting against myself

When my beloved expressed the urge

To meet the famous warrior princess of Manipur. 

"But she doesn't have beautiful eyes,

Neither charm nor moon-like complexion", I said. 

"She is brave, skilled, talented, 

And loved by so many people.

If she were here today,

I would have fought by her side", Arjun replied.

All my dilemma dissolved into thin air.

I gave up my borrowed beauty,

And returned back to the woman that I am.

I restored peace and order in my kingdom,

Freed Manipur from enemies.

My people were rejoicing in my victory,

When Arjun entered the palace. 

I smiled at him confidently,

No longer ashamed of my ordinary looks.

I knew my beloved found me extraordinary

As he asked for my hand in marriage.

A mighty warrior like Arjun

Valued bravery, loyalty, and integrity

Much more than seasonal outer beauty.

©Purba Chakraborty

03.04.2020

Note: In the Hindu epic, Mahabharat, Chitrangada is the warrior princess of Manipur, the daughter of King Chitravahana and one of Arjuna's consorts. She had a son named Babhruvahana with Arjuna. 

Bhishma (Mythological Monologues #2)