Two Songs

Bipode more rokhkha koro

 I pray not for you to guard me in danger time and again

            But so that I can remain undaunted then

It's all right with me if I'm not consoled in sorrow

But do enable me to conquer sorrow!

      Even if I lack a mate, let not my resolve dissipate

            If bad luck mars my home and I feel deprived,

                        Let me not feel abject and defeated

I pray not to be relieved whenever I'm in pain—

            But to be able to stir on my own then

It's all right with me if you don't lift my burden

             But do enable me to bear it on my own

In happiness, I'll bow my head and thank you

            But when I feel depressed and forlorn

Let me never harbour any doubts about you!

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Antoro Momo Bikashito Koro

O innermost one—open wide my heart

Purify it; illuminate it; make it beautiful!

Prepare it; lift it up; make it fearless.

Bless it; enliven it; clear it of doubts.

Meld it with everyone; remove all blocks.

Let your serene rhythm guide its moves.

Mould my mind at your beauteous feet

Hearten it; hearten it; hearten it!

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Dr Fakrul Alam teaches English at the University of Dhaka.