The first glass of water was the only and last thing I had today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. He, my lawful husband, was summoned to the panchayati sammelan today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. Last month I enrolled for the Gulabi gang We protested outside the collectors office today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. My land of historic temples, diamond mines, the valiant Lakshmi Bai… is witnessing a desperate fight today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. Barren fields and starving families… Three hundred farmers have taken their lives. Our neighbour, Balram, just today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. A farmer, Chunbud Ali even dug up his own grave, a week before he committed suicide. The government is assessing the situation even today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. Last month we were told we would be compensated. We received fifteen rupees by cheque, which the bank refused to encash today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. Chitrakoot, Banda, Hamirpur, Mahoba, Jhansi and Jalaun Are drought hit for the last four years… Burning… much beyond the heat of the sun today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. Last week he was compelled to sell me… to a moneylender for eight thousand rupees. With the money lender I will sleep today. Because Bundelkhand has run dry. -Arthur Brendon Cardozo (29.11.09)