He came with his family  

I had my makeup on 

Face loaded with foundation,  

But feet forgotten.  

 

I earn but don’t cook.  

However, that can be lied about 

With fancy dishes, plates, and furniture.  

But how do you lie about my skin color?  

My identity as a dark-girl 

That you will write in your scripture.  

 

I am twenty-two now,  

My dowry amassed,  

Lakhs spent on facials and face masks.  

Still, the skin’s darkness shows.  

It peeps over the paints and made-up art,  

While being judged by the laughing, hidden, dark heart.  

 

Inspired by the lived experiences of many women around us : )  

*Dowry is a punishable offense in India. Giving or taking a dowry can lead you to jail, pay a fine, or both under the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961.  

If you are anybody you know is going through similar experiences, reach out to us for support via our ‘Engage’ and ‘Support’ verticals available on the iDare mobile application. We provide affordable legal counseling and accessible mental health services : ) 

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