SHIMLA

Like a cherry
on the colonial cake
the summer capital
of the empire
where the
sun never set

decades later
the fragrance of history
tudor,gothic and native
still as fresh
as its mountain air


The pearl necklace
of the Himalayas
gracing its proud neck
the serpentine paths
and the stalwart conifers
embroidering its
royal ensemble


The mighty Hanuman*
overlooking from
the Jakhu Peak**
while the numerous streams
singing melodies
for the queen of hills.


* the huge statue of the hindu god whose ancient temple adorns the peak.


**the highest peak in Shimla town.