This page features a video of the poem “The Poem of India”, prescribed under the Karnataka State Syllabus for 10th Standard English Second Language. Along with its summary in three languages and transliterated songs. It serves as a valuable learning resource for students and parents, with each song accompanied by its respective lyrics for easy sing-along. The synchronized lyrics help learners follow and recite the song as it progresses, making memorization and learning by heart easier, more effective, and enjoyable.
Lyrics
English
‘What song shall I sing of you, my Mother?’
I asked
‘Shall I sing
Of the Himalayas with their snow-born peaks,
Of the three seas that wash your palm?
Shall I sing
Of your clear dawn with its pure gold-streaks?’
Said the Mother imperturbable, calm:
'Sing of the beggar and the leper
That swarm my streets.
Sing of the filth and the dirt
That foul my sylvan retreats.
'What song shall I sing of you, my Mother?'
I asked.
‘Shall I sing
Of your rock-cut temples, epics in stone,
Of your children that died to call you their own,’
Their very own?
I asked
‘Shall I sing
Of the Himalayas with their snow-born peaks,
Of the three seas that wash your palm?
Shall I sing
Of your clear dawn with its pure gold-streaks?’
Said the Mother imperturbable, calm:
'Sing of the beggar and the leper
That swarm my streets.
Sing of the filth and the dirt
That foul my sylvan retreats.
'What song shall I sing of you, my Mother?'
I asked.
‘Shall I sing
Of your rock-cut temples, epics in stone,
Of your children that died to call you their own,’
Their very own?
Summary
The poem "The Song of India" presents a story connected with family and relationships. It introduces a situation involving sing, mother, song, asked, and himalayas and follows how the people, animals, or speakers respond to what happens. As the events develop, the poem shows changing feelings, choices, and consequences. The experience also brings out ideas about nature and the environment, giving the reader something meaningful to reflect on. Overall, the poem presents its subject through a memorable situation and a clear central idea.
Author
V.K. Gokak