A Shindy Between Banyan and Oak: A Poem by Staffy Bhateja (Steffi)

Banyan to Oak:
“I am the tree of immortality; I am the Trimurti
For Vishnu is present in my bark, Brahma in my roots and Shiva in my branches
I am the much-revered, giant being- king of Indian forest!
I am the Kalpavriksha, wish-fulfilling pious tree!
I am where Lord Buddha was enlightened
I am a venerated being here, for my leaves are where the puissant Krishna rests
Who are you? A trivial being in front of my mighty persona!”

Oak to Banyan:
“O Banyan! If you symbolize eternity, I stand for wisdom, strength and endurance
I am well-known all across the globe for my beautiful, lobed green leaves and tiny acorns
Catching my leaves brings good luck and prosperity to anyone and everyone around,
I am the cathedral of the natural world
I am sacred to Zeus, the formidable king of Gods!
You do not let even a blade of grass grow under you, for you are linked to the Yama!
But, I am a haven for a colossal number of species; providing them vital spaces to eat, shelter and breed
Who is more potent between the two of us?
Let’s not wrangle and waste our time;
Let’s leave it for the other beings to decipher and decide!”