Original (Odia): K. Biplab Translation: Arun Dash This mask That you see covering my face Got its rightful place Back in my schooldays To shield me from My teacher’s cane lashes. The older and shabbier it gets, The sturdier it becomes, The shinier sparkles My character certificates. This mask Makes my life easy, Holding my head high In all decks, Like those free ducks Swimming in the lakes. This mask alone Gets me all respect, So much so, that Seeing my ageing parents Rot in old-age homes, Pushing them into A sea of sorrow, I still can earn Praises galore. Truth is, This mask – Even with a heart so deceitful – Has kept my life so blissful! Copyright © Arun Dash. All rights reserved.