FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS*
May countless lights
Show delightful sights:
May there be no threats
Of bloody fights,
No clouds of smoke,
No smell of sulphur,
No noise of gunfire,
No scenes of ruined homes
And orphans' cries
And parents' heart-rending wails,
No sorrow that dims the light
In anyone's eyes.
May the light of knowledge and wisdom
Illumine the path to happiness:
May the light of joy and love
Sparkle in everyone's eyes
In every humble home.
May our fervent prayer -
Lead mankind from darkness to Light'
"Tamasoma Jyothirgamaya." *
May all nations together strive
To pave the way to harmony and peace.
***** M.G.N.Murthy
Hyderabad, India