(1)
Urban civilization has witnessed a thousand years;
Its history blooms out as in a riot of colors.
Egypt and Greece rose one after the other’s fall;
India and Mesometapia were linked in one territory.
Cities of China were built by successive generations,
Their spines passing down the centre, uninterrupted.
Palaces and temples are surrounded by weird stones;
Streets and lanes are shaded by ancient trees.
Statues coolly and smartly narrate the history;
Theatres tender-heartedly reveal knoted feelings.
Bridges and canals provide thoroughfares;
Castles and walls protect against enemies.
Industry miraculously transforms the world;
Wars in cruel ways destroy the homesteads.
For harmony and green life, cries are raised;
Footprints gloriously record the vicissitudes.