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Supurna Dasgupta’s translation of Nilesh Raghuvanshi’s poem: आधी जगह – Halfway there (Hindi to English)

Whenever I look at a tree

I see only half of it

Leaving the other half for you to gaze upon


Leaving half the space open

Everywhere

Even on my pillow

Just for you.


Never have I been able to cross

The river

Only about halfway through

I leave the rest to you.


Droplets quiver on the lily-pads

Like the moon shakes before an eclipse

Like dry leaves flutter before Spring

I quake in my half-measure life

From a half-filled moon, with a half-filled mug

And from your love, halfway there.

Supurna lives and teaches in Santa Clara (California), thinks and writes about literature and translation, embroiders half-sketched designs, and dreams up new classes to teach.
Neelesh Raghuvanshi is a celebrated Hindi poet known for her poignant and introspective verses that capture everyday life, human emotions, and societal nuances. Her poetry reflects a deep sensitivity towards relationships, personal struggles, and the complexities of existence. She has received critical acclaim and numerous accolades for her literary contributions, including the Vanmali Katha Samman and the Raza Foundation Award. Through her evocative and accessible writing, she continues to leave a lasting impact on contemporary Hindi literature.

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