City Palace

Old but steady I stand here
With pride on my royal being
The royal time is long gone
Now there are tourists here sight-seeing

I carry with me stories of grandeur,
Of loyalty and of betrayal
Some written, some painted, some carved
And some lost without any portrayal

I have seen the splendour of His highness
At the time when he was crowned
And also witnessed the grand celebrations
Where the dancers swayed in rounds

My walls once sparkled like glitters
When the lake reflected sunlight
When royal horses marched around me
My chest swelled with pride

There also was a soft corner
Where women would sing and dance
Their elegance took my breath away
When I would steal a glance

Gone is the opulence and the glory
Stories are what now remain
I wish for someone to bring back
That golden era again

The lake is still the same
But sunlight doesn't reflect anymore
With hundreds of people around
Strolling and walking on the shore

Those curious come to see me for my valour
In their eyes I find my solace
There I stand dignified and magnificent
I am the glorious City Palace

--Written for the City Palace in Udaipur, India