Bikram Pawan Pariyar
Translated from Nepali by Hem Bishwakarma
Remember me then–
when you are in sorrow!
Remember me,
if you got a fortuitous cut
with a Chulesi
while cutting vegetables
Remember me,
if a thorn stuck your foot
Remember me,
while walikng
while lighting Diyo–
if it is blown off all of sudden!
Remember when the food gets stock out
Remember when the cooking oil finishes
I thinkg,
I am the one who you have to remember to!
Remember when the salt finishes
Remember when the strap of your sandal breaks
Remember when the blouse button pops off
Remember when the moonlight touches you
Remember when you feel my absence
I am the one who you have to remember to
thus you remember
whenever or wherever you want
The more–when in solitude.
Remember me,
while using an axe to split firewoods
you might bear corns on your palm
also you eyes that wait for me
would witness a couple of peacocks
dancing merrily
when you are thirsty like a dried out water tap
when the drought strikes the cornfield arid
and before the young corn plants be pregnant
it snows!
then remember me
Remember when making ridges of paddy field
Remember when repairing the thatched roof
When you wish to embellish with reminiscences
then put on a dozen of red bangles undoubtedly
and sense that I am with you!
When you feel the house is so empty
stand at the balcony
take out the mobile
dial my number and tell
“The jingling of bangles on my hand
sounds like your heartbeat.”
Do not worry,
if I fall sick
for your eyelashes twitch
think that I am remembering you!
To my situation,
by God’s grace, I’m well!
think that I am waiting for you!
Maybe I can’t return home on time
I can’t meet you on time
then understand the compulsions
please,
Remember me the way you like
I won’t forget to remember you!
…
Bikram Pawan Pariyar is the author of Jaleko Mutu (ghazals), Maun Salik (short epic), and Susta Ghatyo, Mrityu Saiya and Jindagima Aayou (songs). Originally from Ramechhap, he works in the Nepal Army, and is stationed in Kathmandu.