Henry Louis Vivian Derozio

HLV Derozio, ( 1809-1831),the forgotten Anglo Indian poet, was the first Nationalist poet of India. He had done many hats from been an accountant of an indigo firm to a journalists, social reformer to lecturer of The then Hindu College. His ideas had a profound influence on the Bengal Renaissence in early 19th century. Because of which he had to resign from his job.

His students were called Derozians. Derozio emphasized on women's emancipation and criticized many aspects of Btitish rule.He died at a very young age of 22.

The Harp of India

Why hang’st thou lonely on yon withered bough?

Unstrung for ever, must thou there remain;

Thy music once was sweet – who hears it now?

Why doth the breeze sigh over thee in vain?

Silence hath bound thee with her fatal chain;

Neglected, mute, and desolate art thou,

Like ruined monument on desert plain:

O! many a hand more worthy far than mine

Once thy harmonious chords to sweetness gave,

And many a wreath for them did Fame entwine

Of flowers still blooming on the minstrel’s grave:

Those hands are cold – but if thy notes divine

May be by mortal wakened once again,

Harp of my country, let me strike the strain!