19 July 2026

Third Grade Anomaly

They say you don't 
need a reason to love.
But I've seen her in a
wolf-cut and saree.
Jasmine flowers and 
oversized hoodies.

Jingles of silver 
anklets while she walks 
in combat boots-- 
Cargo pants go
seamlessly with the 
glass bangles that 
are dotted green.

The leather jacket
and a tiny black bindi.
Ripped jeans and
elaborate jhumkas-
She says 'Ayyo' while 
ordering sushi.

Looking like tomorrow,
carrying yesterday 
effortlessly.
Ohh! the kathakali 
adorning a Gothic 
building-

Perhaps it doesn't 
need any reason,
Just enough contradictions 
maybe.

It's a third grade 
anomaly in a 
second grade heart.
Love is a wound that 
doesn't subside but 
compels you to 
scratch.