THE LITTLE GODDESS

Here's a poem which I had written during the recent Navratra festival. Do share your thoughts about this composition.

A flower garland adorned her slender neck,
New red bangles glimmered in the fairy lights.

She was dressed in a new silk saree,
A shiny red Chunri lent a bright hue
To her dark visage.
The Goddess smiled benevolently
At the devotees bowing before her
In obeisance.

Young girls in shiny red Mata ki chunris
Feted as little goddesses themselves,
Smiled benevolently
At the aunties and uncles touching their feet,
Piety writ large on their faces,
Seeking blessings, peace
and prosperity.
Chanting Jai Mata Di.

Resplendent in their new clothes, 
They exulted over the red bangles, 
Gifts and chocolates. 
After a feast of halwa-poori-chane
They looked full and sated.
The elders rejoiced
Blissful and contented.
Except one of them.

Counting and stashing away coins
And notes in their new bags and pouches
The girls headed home excitedly.
Except one of them.

The little goddess was found-
The shiny red Mata Ki Chunri
Tied tightly around her slender neck-
In a shrub behind the temple,
Mauled and devoured
By a lusty predator,
Perhaps still on the prowl
Among the devout.