If I were reborn as a man tonight, I would go for a drive way past my bed time,
I’d sit in a bus going anywhere but home, I will spread my legs like I have never before.
I’ll sit like this world, has forever been mine. I’d think about India’s daughter who died, Nirbhaya I
know, you had put up a fight.
If were reborn as a man tonight, I would go wherever I pleased and liked,
My body will never be too exposed, no one will question my moral code.
My bare legs will not be a sexual display maybe just maybe I will not be raped.
If I were reborn as a man tonight, I would walk to school and back without a fright.
No Guddu would want to burn my face, I’d walk proud without being called a disgrace.
I’d dream and walk at my own pace.
If I were reborn as a man tonight, I’d not be harassed by goons you called because I wouldn’t dance
willingly to an ‘item’ song.
I kept quiet for so long, that doesn’t mean it’s untrue, Dear Mr Pathekar, yes, Me too.
If I were reborn as a man tonight,
I would promise to all of womankind that never will you ever face this again.
I am sorry this world has been an unkind place.

Kavya Kumar
VSLLS
1 C