The caste system is undying, imperishable
Blessed with immortality and a rare sheen
Cast as it was aeons ago
Not in copper but stainless steel

The edges are being honed
Getting sharper with age
Causing a bruise or a cut occasionally
Tormenting multitudes in its cage

Those fortunate to be born high
Enjoy the cold, steely shine
Which screams from rooftops
Your status is lower than mine

The razor sharp rays on steel
Reflect with magnified intensity
Blinding one and all in its grasp
Daring to question its rigidity

Creating a mirage of orderliness
History and golden heritage
While the vultures swoop down
To devour the morsels from its garbage

Subir Chakraborty / 24th March 2018