A RECOMPENSE NON - PAREIL

Caught up in the tight grip of Satan, Drona changed anon his plate
It rang - "Well dear I'm glad that your skill changed your caste and fate
Won't you then offer ¹¹gurudakshina to making you unique in this field
Nay, to making astravidya itself bow to you as the best in this field"

"Spell out guruji, it'll be done before the final syllable escapes lips 
My whole body, skill, soul is awaiting bidding to fall from thy tips 
Name it, it'll be yours, sans delay, I'll place it at your holy feet 
Doubt not, wait not, grumble not, mention and it'll be at your feet."

Finding Ekalavya's devotion's ready to part with to him anything 
Wicked Drona's foul mouth opening demanded an atrocious thing 
"In that case dear, give your thumb as gurudakshina to me now" 
Sooner than said", Ekalavya cut his thumb and offered with a bow.

When that tiny thumb fell into the outstretched palm of Drona 
Dripping hot blood it chuckled at its victory over that jackal Drona 
For divesting teaching profession of its due dignity and honour 
And rising above decadent casteism, blind belief and soulless honour.

Drona robbed Ekalavya of his priceless skill and made Arjunn unrivalled 
But, it left an indelible blot on Drona. And to it excelled that unrivalled. 

Glossary

11) payment due to preceptor.

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