Buffed with filigree
holding the rustling ghararah*
ears and nose
reined-in by golden trinkets
the bride steps out
from a glossy car
wobbling on pointed heels
smile-collector she walks
with a market-logic
the photographers
land on her with cameras
like octopus’ tentacles
lips slicked with lipstick
eyes clogged withmascara
she blinks to flashes
the post-box mouth
swallows the greetings
amidst clank of crockery
and velvety drizzle of guests
face-lowered she goes on
waiting.