A poem for Manju

There’s a lady we call ‘Manju’ — a devoted dasi of Visnu,

and the faithful wife of a boy we call “Su.” 

They’re a barrel of fun – and united as one,

just like soy sauce and a nicely braised tofu.

She’s a culinary queen — for there’s nothing she ain’t seen, 

in her years of scouring cookbooks.

She’ll whip up a feast, to satisfy any hungry beast,

yep, this girl is much more than good looks.

She’s strong and firm, like a cast iron urn, 

but filled with a delicate herbal tea.

For her heart is so sweet — like a tiramisu treat,

under layers and layers of practicality.

Her cakes are legendary — certainly not ordinary

for she is a creative genius with food.

She can create magic on hand, so please understand, 

this girl knows how to get you in the mood… 

To feel satisfied, like a newly-wed bride,

it’ll be the happiest day of your life…

When you taste her wonder meals — your heart she now steals,

to soak with love and butter with her knife…

Covered in whipped cream — a saffron dream,

for she knows exactly what you need.

There’s no stopping this girl, as marzipan does swirl,

for liberating your soul is her creed.

I am so honoured to know, this Gujarati JLo —

yep, this girl got style and spunk. 

For she’ll break into a dance, on your decor to enhance, 

and transform your drab crib with funk. 

She’s an eclectic designer, with a mind like Steiner,

nothing is beyond her expansive mind.

Fusing colours and styles, that’ll make everyone smile,

creating a feel you just can’t define. 

Such a unique, lovely woman — so far from common, 

for her passions run deep and wide, 

I mean, who would have guessed, she thinks GSP is the best,

and that she’s a huge fan of UFC and Pride!

On this blessed of days, we call out: “Hip, Hip, Hare”

to celebrate her life with a cake. 

As she enjoys every bite of God’s love all so bright,

displayed as candles of a soul so awake.

This lass emerges anew — like a teenage girl’s debut,

and is now ready to party and play…

on the dance floor of wisdom, she seeks God’s blessed kingdom,

with her spoon held high she does say:

“Please come to eat — and take your seat,

for everyone is welcome here today.

I have made this just for you, and it’s been blessed by the ‘boy blue,’

so please help me celebrate my birthday.”

“Most certainly mam — you must understand,

we relish your prasadam — oh so high.

You’re a kitchen Goddess — a hostess with the mostess

for there is no one you will ever deny.”

“For this we are so grateful, so don’t mind if we take a plateful,

for your love food is absolutely divine. 

The taste so transcendental — and yet so fundamental, 

in transforming us lowly swine.”

“We feel loved again — and totally freed from the mundane, 

of lusty thoughts, anger and greed. 

Your food makes us feel whole — body, mind and soul

for liberating our soul is your creed.”

Happy Birthday!!!

Your godbrother, 

Priyavrata das