The first revolt

It was Bhaiphonta when the first time I revolted;
I might be in third or fourth grade.
I had barely any knowledge of feminism
Nor I knew about gender equality.

The cousins came to our house.
They were given good food
The lamp was lit;
The chandan was prepared
They were waiting for us.

I was standing at the corner
When my sister completed the ritual
 my turn came;
And nobody could move me
a single inch from that corner.

I didn't want their gifts nor their blessings.
In my mind I thought
Will there be a single day
when I would receive the same treatment?

The two brothers were disappointed
And I knew I broke their heart
But I had to.

Lucknow, India