Daily Poetry — July 18, 2026

कठपुतली (Kathputli)

Composed by भवानी प्रसाद मिश्र (Bhavani Prasad Mishra)

Original Hindi

कठपुतली गुस्से से उबली बोली - ये धागे क्यों हैं मेरे पीछे-आगे? इन्हें तोड़ दो; मुझे मेरे पाँवों पर छोड़ दो। सुनकर बोलीं और-और कठपुतलियाँ कि हाँ, बहुत दिन हुए हमें अपने मन के छंद छुए। मगर पहली कठपुतली सोचने लगी - ये कैसी इच्छा मेरे मन में जगी? मेरे आगे-पीछे के धागे अब कहाँ जाऊँ? किस पर छोड़ूँ?

English Translation

The puppet boiled with anger, Said - Why are these threads behind and in front of me? Break them; Leave me to stand on my own feet. Hearing this, other puppets spoke up, Saying - Yes, it's been a long time since we touched the rhythm of our own hearts. But the first puppet began to think - What kind of desire has awakened in my mind? My threads behind and in front, where do I go now? Whom do I leave them to?

AI Generated

AI Echo (Hindi)

स्वतंत्रता का भार, क्या मैं सह पाऊँगी? अनजान डगर पर कैसे चल पाऊँगी? एक पल की उमंग, कहीं न बन जाए बोझ, फिर से क्या चाहूँगी, क्या करूँगी खोज? धागों की डोर में थी, एक सुरक्षित छाँव, अब खुली धूप में, क्या पाएगा पाँव? मन की उड़ान में, थी जिम्मेदारी की डोर, अब उस डोर के बिना, किधर बहूँगी ओर? यह मुक्ति की पुकार, क्या सच्ची है मेरी? या बस एक क्षणिक आवेग, जो डराती है मेरी?

AI Generated

AI Echo (English)

The burden of freedom, can I truly bear? On unknown paths, how will I find my way there? A moment's zeal, might it become a heavy load? What will I then desire, what new path will be trod? In the puppet strings, there was a safe shade, Now in the open sun, what will my feet make? In the mind's flight, there was a string of responsibility, Now without that string, to what shore will I flee? Is this call for liberation truly mine? Or just a fleeting impulse, that makes me pine?

Literary & Historical Context

Bhavani Prasad Mishra (1913-1985) was a prominent Hindi poet of the 'Doosra Saptak' (Second Septet) movement, known for his simple yet profound language and deep psychological insights. "कठपुतली" (Kathputli - Puppet) is a classic example of his style. The poem uses the metaphor of a puppet yearning for freedom from its strings. Initially, the puppet's desire is strong and infectious, inspiring other puppets. However, the first puppet's subsequent reflection delves into the complexities of freedom. It questions whether true liberation comes with the heavy burden of self-reliance and the fear of the unknown. This poem beautifully explores themes of individual autonomy, the illusion of complete freedom, and the inherent responsibilities that come with it. It holds a significant place in Hindi literature for its philosophical depth presented in an accessible form, resonating with anyone who has contemplated the true cost of independence.