voices around the world

I ) Voice of United Nations

Amidst disastrous Second World War, ravaged economy, and bloodshed;
was born the concept of UN(1), which offered hope that peace won’t fade.

All philanthropists preached universal unity & brotherhood & sang in unison;
Or else, how the battle against poverty, diseases, illiteracy etc. could be won?

International law, security, prosperity & gender equality were ensured by UN charter;
A truly International Organization was formed; blessed be 24th of October (2).

Blessed be UN flag of white and blue(3) and Olive branches symbolizing peace;
UN’s dedication was established, when ‘Blue Helmets(4)’received Nobel Prize for Peace.

People in poverty and famine hit lands are grateful to UN for supply of food & water;
And also millions of refugees, whom UN provides humanitarian aid and shelter.

Future tourists shall praise UNESCO for creating and preserving World Heritage Sites;
By holding fair elections in many nations, UN is upholding democracy & Human Rights.

Through mediation and arms control, UN has prevented conflict & diversion of resource;
Through peace keeping operation, it has prevented genocide, aggression & use of force.

UN focused global attention on important issues by declaring International Day & Year;
UNESCO truly deserved Nobel Peace Prize(5) for its motherly, destitute children’s care.

Mankind has realized, a Global village is possible, if Ultra-Nationalists are not adamant;
And one day Global Law & Justice(6) shall prevail; UN shall become World Parliament(7).

[ 1) The term “United Nations” was decided by Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt during WW II 2) The United Nations came into existence on 24th October,1945 by UN Charter, which was signed by 50 Nations 3) White and Blue are official colors of UN 4) UN peace keeping troops are called ‘Blue Helmets’. They received the 1988 Nobel Prize for Peace. In 2001, the UN and former Secretary General “Kofi Annan” won the Nobel Peace Prize "for their work for a better organized and more peaceful world." 5) UNESCO was awarded Nobel Peace Prize in 1965. 6) International Court of Justice has settled several disputes among member nations peacefully. In view of its growing importance, it might be expected that one day, it will become truly Global 7) As more and more Nations have joined the UN (presently 192 member states), the UN General Assembly is addressing more and more International issues, and hopefully, one day it might act like World Parliament.]
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II ) Voice of European Union

Glory to European Union; the world’s largest economy;
On three pillars (1) we stand, in perfect solidarity & harmony.

Blessed be 9th of May (2); our Rome & Maastricht treaty;
We swear: “Our motto is unity in diversity”

Blessed be Constitution of Europe, meant for peace & democracy,
and our agriculture, fisheries, foreign and security policy.

Independent democracies: England, France, Germany and other greats,
God bless Robert Schumann (3) and world's largest confederation of States.

We’ll strive for secularity and prosperity; we’re world’s largest exporter;
We have maximum global cities & we are largest humanitarian aid provider.

Let our 'Flag of circle of golden stars on blue' fly high in the air;
and in our single market, each country get it's maximum fair share.

And from our capital Brussels, which is symbol of unity,
Let our language barrier get crushed and appear as unity in diversity.

Our goal is not far: we have central European Bank, Court & Parliament;
And common currency & European Union citizenship for free settlement.

[1) Three pillars refer to three major policies. Presently the term ‘Justice and Home Affairs’ cover these integrated policies.
2) 9th of May ‘Schuman Declaration’ was the 1st step towards European Federation and is generally considered as birthday of European Union. Maastricht treaty is regarded as founding treaty of EU. The motto of EU is: “Unity in Diversity”.
3) Robert Schumann is generally considered as founding father of EU.]
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III ) Voice of America
On the moon, by a human (1), our flag was first unfurled;
You are sole superpower; mightiest nation in the world.

God bless your son Washington; the Father of the Nation;
And Lincoln, who bravely fought slavery till his assassination!

Seed of freedom was born amidst American Revolution’s fight;
Throughout the world, Edison (2) has spread the modern light.

We are oldest modern democracy; in Golden words it is written in history;
Laser, Internet, modern technology etc. all originated from our country.

Let our star spangled flag fly high; God bless America;
Let in wealth we surpass all; our influences extend till Antarctica.

‘United we stand’ and ‘trust in God’ (3); of diverse cultures let’s not forget,
Our nation is a Melting Pot. Nobel & Olympic medals are our target.

Land of Roses! (4)in every field , we have achieved miraculous feat;
We are brave and royal as bald eagle (5), we’ll never accept defeat.

We are proud of our Great Seal (6), White House, and Statue of Liberty
and Mount Rushmore (7), and golden gate, which symbolizes prosperity.

Like Grand Canyon, let our target & mission be as grand;
Let like Great Lakes, calmly all storms we may withstand.

Let Rock, Country, Jazz, Blues be our ‘American Dream’
Our grand Hollywood & Disney was also born out of dream.
(**Last two stanzas may be left out.)
[1) Refers to Neil Armstrong 2) Thomas Edison invented electric lamp, and is widely accepted as greastest inventor. 3) The motto of US is: ‘United we stand’ and ‘trust in God’ 4) Rose is the National flower of US 5) Bald Eagle is the national bird and symbolizes USA 6) Great Seal, White House, and Statue of Liberty all symbolizes US
7) Mount Rushmore (where faces of all US Presidents are carved) and Golden gate also symbolizes US]

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IV ) Voice of SAARC

Most populous regional organization comprising India, Afghanistan,
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives and Pakistan (1).

Our region of Aryan & Dravidian heritages has witnessed diverse assimilation;
and Sufi movement, Hindu Muslim unity, rich cultural & religious integration(2).

Land of diverse landscapes-from Bamiyan valley to dense Sundarban forest;
Islands, beaches, deserts, valley of Ganga & Padma, Mount Godwin & Everest(3).

Birthland of Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism & Indus valley civilizations;
Ancient knowledge from Nalanda & Taxila spread far & wide to other nations.

Shalimar Garden, Taj Mahal, Bagerhat Masjid & many World Heritage sites(4);
Sigiriya, Golden temples, Lumbini; Lion Pillar of Sarnath capture tourist’s sights.

Land of Royal Bengal Tiger, Peacock, Lion, Shama, Dayal and Deodar;
And Banyan, Nil Manel, Himalayan Monal, Jackfruit and Chukar (5A).

Takin, Blue Poppy, Coconut Palm, Na, Bhutan Cypress & Common Raven,
Rose, Lotus, Shapla, Jasmine & Rhododendron makes it beautiful as heaven(5B).

In agriculture, rural development & healthcare, we’ll work in close cooperation;
and in Science & Technology, Human Resource development & transportation(6).

Our goal is free trade area, friendship & trust; blessed be 8th of December(7);
Economic & social development were Ziaur Rehman’s dream; let’s all remember.

(Stanzas 5A&B may be omitted or abridged.) *See abridged stanzas (5A&B) at the end.

[1) With a population of over 1.5 billion, SAARC has the largest sphere of influence in terms of population. 2) The dominant peoples and cultures are Indo-Aryan and Dravidian, which is a distinguishing feature that sets South Asian people apart anthropologically from the rest of Asia. This region has witnessed diverse cultural assimilation, especially Tibetan cultures in the beautiful Himalayan kingdom of Nepal & Bhutan, and Persian, Arab & Turkish cultures in Afghanistan and parts of Pakistan. 3) “Bamiyan Valley” in Afghanistan is one of the World Heritage Sites. Mount Everest and Mount Godwin Austin are the highest and second highest peaks in the world respectively, which lies within the borders of SAARC. 4) “Shalimar Garden” of Lahore, “Taj Mahal” (considered among one of the wonders of the world) in Agra and “Bagerhat Masjid” are some of the World Heritage sites. Similarly, ancient city of “Sigiriya” (an architectural marvel) & Golden Temple of “Dambulla” in Sri Lanka; “Lumbini” (the Birthplace of Lord Buddha) in Nepal are other World Heritage Sites. The National Symbol of India has been taken from the Lion Pillar at Sarnath. (It may be mentioned that “Golden Temple” at Amritsar in Punjab is one of the Holiest Religious sites of the Sikhs).
5 A&B) “Bengal Tiger” is the National Animal of India, Bangladesh and Nepal.
Peacock is the National Animal of India. Lion is the National Animal of Sri Lanka & was once the National Animal of India. “Shama/Dayal” (Oriental Magpie Robin) is the National bird of Bangladesh. “Deodar” is the National tree of Pakistan. Banyan is the National Tree of India & Bangladesh. “Nil Manel” is the National Flower of Sri Lanka. “Himalayan Monal” (Danphe) is the N. Bird of Nepal. Jackfruit is N. Fruit of Bangladesh. “Chukar” is N. Bird of Pakistan. “Na” is National tree of Sri Lanka.
“Takin” is National fauna of Bhutan while Bhutan Cypress is the N. Tree; the “Common Raven” is the National Bird of Bhutan.
“Coconut Palm” and Rose are N. Tree and N. flower of Maldives. “Shapla” (water Lily) is the National flower of Bangladesh.
Lotus is the N. Flower of India while Jasmine and Rhododendron is the N. Flower of Pakistan. Rhododendron is also the N. flower of Nepal.
6) These were the agreed major five areas of cooperation. 7) SAARC was established on 8th of December, 1985. Former President of Bangladesh, “Ziaur Rehman” proposed the creation of a trade block of South Asian countries, and is generally regarded as founder of SAARC.]
*Abridged Stanzas 5A&B:
Land of Royal Bengal Tiger, Lion, Banyan, Nil Manel; Bhutan Cypress & Raven;
Rose, Lotus, Shapla, Jasmine & Rhododendron makes it beautiful as heaven.(5A&B).

V ) Voice of Philippines

‘Pearl of the Orient’(1); surrounded by Philippine and Celebes Sea,
Land of ‘Sampaguita’(1A) & ‘Nara’ trees (1B); washed by South China Sea.

Carabao (1C), Milkfish (2), Mango (3) and Philippine eagle (4) are our national pride,
O chosen land of morning and glory (5); you are beautiful as a young bride.

‘For God, people, nature and country’(6) is devoted our beautiful lands,
Mount Apo (7) bears your might in Luzon, Visayas & Mindanao islands.

We are proud of Jose Rizal (8) & Coat of Arms of eight rayed Sun(9);
We play Sipa(10); sing ‘Bayan Ko’(11); dance ‘Carinosa’(12) & make fun.

O charming land of Anahaw(13); to conquerors we will never surrender;
You are beautiful like ‘South Sea Pearl’(14); to die for you is our pleasure.

[1) Phillipines is known as the “Pearl of the Orient” 1A) Sampaguita is a species of Jasmine and popularly considered as “National Flower of Philippines”
1B) Huge Nara (Burmese Rosewood/Valuable teakwood) trees flourishes all over Philippines and symbolizes Philippines. 1C) Carabao is a species of water buffalo which is used as a farm animal for pulling plough and symbolizes Philippines.
2), 3) & 4) Milkfish is national fish; Mango is National fruit; and Philippine eagle is National bird of Philippines. 5) Philippines have been mentioned as “Chosen land of morning and glory” in the National Anthem. 6) National motto of Phillipines is: “For God, People, Nature and our Country”
7) Mount Apo is the highest peak in Philippines.8) Jose Rizal is National Hero of Phillipines and is generally considered as the ‘Father of the Nation’ 9) Eight rayed Coat of Arms is the National Emblem of Philippines 10) Sipa is the National sport of Phillipines 11) ‘Bayan Ko’ is the National Song of Phillippines 12) ‘Carinosa’ is the National dance of Phillipines 13) Anahaw (fan palm) symbolizes Phillippines 14) ‘South Sea Pearl’ is considered as National Gem of Phillippines ]
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VI A) Voice of India (Glory to my motherland)

O queen of all nations! You are truly wonderful;
Mighty Himalayas for your crown! You are truly beautiful.

Holiest is the land, where flows the ‘Ganga’ river;
Your tiger(1A) like children’s bravery makes our enemies shiver.

O motherland! “Vande Mataram” (1B) we sing aloud,
With a billion voices; truly it makes you proud.

Birth land of Hinduism and Buddhism; two major religions;
You shelter Sikhs, Jains, Christians and Muslims in your bosoms.

Where people celebrate Holi & Id and embrace each other;
I love you my motherland; like a son loves his mother.

We salute ‘Mahatmaji’ (2); let our tricolor flag fly high;
And let bravery and hope in our heart be as limitless as the sky.

Glory to Bhagat Singh (3A) and countless freedom fighters;
Chandrasekhar, Raman, Teresa, Rabindranath(3B) (one of greatest writers).

From lush green Punjab to Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal;
Thar, Sarnath (3C), Kashmir, Kanyakumari; you are mistress of all.

O jewel of the crown!(4A) Beautiful Lotus (4B) and Peacock (5) bears your beauty,
Mangos (6) announce your soil's flavor; to travelers Banyan (7) does its duty.

Mighty Indian Ocean washes your feet and praise to your fame,
Tell me O motherland! Which nation has an ocean in her name?

[N.B.: 1A) Tiger known for its bravery, is the National animal of India. 1B) Vande Mataram-National song of India 2) Mahatmaji-Father of the nation
3A) Bhagat Singh-Freedom Fighter who became a martyr by sacrificing his life for the country. He went to the gallows and became immortal 3B) All of them were Nobel Prize winners 3C) Sarnath has a special importance, because the National Emblem of India was adopted from the ‘Lion Pillar’ at Sarnath 4A) India was referred to as ‘Jewel of the crown of the British Empire’. 4B) Lotus- National flower of India 5) Peacock-National bird of India 6) Mango-National fruit of India 7) Banyan-National tree of India.]
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VI B) Bharat Mata ki Jai (Hindi version of above poem)

Sabhi Deso ki rani! Bharat Mata ki Jai ho!
Himalaya Tumhara mukut! Tum anant rupashi ho!

Pavitra hai woh bhoomi jahan bahti hai Ganga nadi;
Tumhare sher jaise putra raksha karenge tumhari sadiyo sadi.

O matribhumi! Jor jor “Vande Mataram” gaaye hum;
Sau karor log hai hum; humse loha lene ka kisme hai dum?

Hindu ewang Buddha dharma ka ho Janmasthan;
Sikh, Jain, Esaiyo aur Musalmano ka bhi desh Hindustan.

Jahan log Holi aur Id manate hai, aur aapas me galey milte hai;
Mai tumhe utna hi chahta hun, jaise putra apne mata ko chahta hai.

Hamara tiranga ucha rahe; “Mahatmaji” ko shat shat naman;
Tyaag, shanti aur satya se sada bhara rahe hamara mann.

Bhagat Singh aur asankhya Swadhinata Senaniyo ki jai ho;
Rabindranath, Chandasekhar, Raman aur Mother Teresa ka yash na kum ho.

Punjab se leke Bengal ki Khari aur Himalaya ka taaj;
Thar, Sarnath, Kashmir, Kanyakumari tak hai tumhara hi raaj.

O mukut ke ratna! Kamal aur More darshaye tumhare ananta roop;
Aaam ghoshna kare tumhari jaamin ki khusboo ki; bargad rokey tej dhoop.

Hind Mahasagar tumhara charan dhokar kare tumhara bandan aur naman;
Kis aur desh ke naam se hai Mahasagar, batao mere pyare watan?

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VII ) Voice of China

One of the largest and flourishing economy & emerging superpower,
We have invented paper, compass, press and gunpowder(1A).

Protected by the great Wall(1B), our beautiful country of Peony flowers (1C),
Fly high in China, Hong Kong & Tibet our red flag with yellow stars (2A).

Our land of Yangtze, Hwang-Ho, ‘Takla Makan’ and Gobi desert,
We love our motherland from the bottom of our heart.

Founded by Yellow Emperor(2B), one of the oldest unbroken civilization;
Glory to Wuchang uprising & Long March(2C) & dream of Great Chinese Nation(2D).

We celebrate National Foundation Day on 1st October with pompousness;
Glory to Tiananmen, five stars; golden & red colors(3A) represent auspiciousness.

Our history includes Qin, Xia, Shang and Zhou dynasty,
And Han, Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming & Manchu dynasty.

Our holy land, where “father of modern China” Sun-Yat-Sen took birth,
Like giant Panda (3B) & giant dragon (4), we are giant nation on earth.

We are proud of all land and our language 'Mandarin' (5),
May our billion hearts beat as one! Let's march on and win (6).

[1A) Paper, compass, press & gunpowder are widely accepted as the four greatest ancient inventions. 1B) Great China world is truly one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is the only ancient man-made structure visible from the moon! These are the most important part of Chinese Nationalism. 1C) Peony flowers is Unofficially accepted as National flower of China.
2A) Red flag with yellow stars is the National flag of China. 2B) Legendary Yellow Emperor is regarded as ancestor of all Chinese in Chinese Mythology. 2C) Wuchang Uprising & Long March evokes and inculcates Patriotism in the heart of Chinese people. 2D) Since time immemorial, Chinese People have imagined the concept of an United Great Chinese Nation (Zonghu Minzu).
3A) The Chinese National Emblem depicts Tiananmen Gate beneath 5 shining Stars, encircled by ears of grain & cogwheel at the bottom. The golden and red colors represent auspiciousness & happiness.
3B) Giant Panda is widely recognized as National animal of China.
4) Dragon is the legendary symbol of China.
5) It is often claimed that Mandarin language is spoken by maximum number of people on our planet.
6) This line was taken from the National Song of China; but the word “million hearts’ have been replaced by “billion hearts’, keeping in view the present status of China.]
[I shall be deeply grateful, if anyone translates this poem in Chinese Language (Mandarin)]

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VIII ) Voice of Canada

Our home & native land; The True North strong & free;
God keep our land glorious; we stand in guard for thee(1).

Stretching from the shores of Atlantic to the coast of Pacific(2),
Lies our settlement of maple (3) leaves; whose size is terrific.

Land of Canadian horse & Beaver(4); we celebrate Canadian Day;
‘God save the Queen’(5);Blessed be Victoria Day(6) on 24th of May;

Traveling by Canadian rail (7), one can see between each station,
Lays our land dotted with minerals, one of the wealthiest nation.

And countless small lakes, outnumbering any other country,
By ‘Canadian Charter, one witness our people happy and free.

Ours is a nation of Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and British Columbia,
and New Brunswick, Quebec, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia.

We are proud of John Mcdonald (8), coat of arms and Prince Edward Island,
And our Great Seal(9) Canada goose (10), walking on Labrador and Newfoundland.

Virgin forest from Coniferous to Tundra covers our country's soil,
And beneath it lays vast deposit of natural gas and oil.

[1)This stanza has been taken from the “National Anthem of Canada” 2) This has reference to the Motto of Canada: ‘From Sea to Sea’ 3) Maple leaf is widely accepted as a symbol of Canada. Maple tree is the National tree of Canada. 4) Canadian horse and Beaver are widely accepted as National animals of Canada. 5) ‘God save the Queen’ is the Royal Anthem of Canada. 6) Victoria Day is celebrated as a National Holiday
7) Canadian rail is one of Canada’s national pride. 8) John Mcdonald is widely accepted as the ‘Father of the Nation’. 9) The Great Seal symbolizes Canada and is kept by Registrar General. 10) Canada Goose is widely accepted as one of the National symbols of Canada.]
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IX) Voice of Australia

Land of Kangaroos(1A), Emu(1B), Koala, Platypus and Eucalyptus,
God bless the Holy land of Australia; God bless all of us.

Only continent-nation, surrounded by high seas;
Like ‘Great Barrier’(2A), it is a barrier to our enemies.

We speak proudly of Henry Parkes(2B) in Queensland and Victoria,
and in Tasmania, Wales, Western and South Australia(2C).

Our beautiful landscape is immortalized by Streeton;
and by Arthur Boyd; Henry Lawson and Patterson(2D).

Let our Australian flag(3A) fly high on top of Mount Kosciuszko(3B);
and over Exhibition building-world heritage declared by UNESCO.

Goldmines and cornfields are plenty, we lead in agriculture,
Patrick White (3C) brought more gold by excelling in literature.

Blooming Golden Wattle(4A) display green & gold-our National colours;
Which symbolize unity; like opal(4B), our Nation shines in brilliant colors.

We are brave people; our “Commonwealth Coat of Arms” makes us proud;
“God save our gracious king & queen”, together, we harmoniously sing aloud.

[1A) Kangaroo is the National animal of Australia 1B) Emu is the National bird of Australia 2A) ‘Great barrier’ refers to the ‘Great Barrier Reef’, the largest coral reef in the world. 2B) Henry Parkes is widely accepted as the “Father of the Nation”. 2C) These are the names of the Provinces into which Australia is divided for administrative purpose. 2D) Henry Lawson and Patterson got their inspiration in literature from the beautiful landscape of Australia. It may be mentioned that most of the early paintings were also based on the charming landscape of Australia. 3A) Australian flag has three elements on Blue background: The Union Jack (which reminds of colonization of Australia), Commonwealth stars (which represent unity of six states and is a patriotic symbol) and the Southern Cross 3B) Mount Kosciuszko is the highest peak in Australia. 3C) Patrick White was awarded the coveted Nobel Prize in Literature. 4A) Golden Wattle is the National Floral Emblem of Australia 4B) The National Gemstone of Australia is Opal, which emits brilliant colours. Australia is one of the most urbanized Nation, and has a very flourishing and stable economy. Therefore it is proper to mention it as “Shining Australia”]
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X ) Voice of Germany

Justice and freedom is our motto, Berlin Wall can't destroy our unity,
In protection and defense, we exceed all, and in our loyalty.

From our land in the heart of Europe, pours out the best songs and wine,
We are expert in extracting energy from wind and bright sunshine.

Blessed be Pope's birthplace Bavaria, and our land bounded by the Baltic Sea,
We are greatest economic power in Europe, and eager in its unity.

God bless our golden, red and black flag, and our eagled coat of arms,
and our lifeline Kiel Canal; and our land of infinite charms.

Glory to "Bundesrepublik Deutschland (1)"; land of poets and thinkers,
and to Thomas Mann, Hermann, Heinrich & Gunter-our greatest writers.

We are proud of Einstein, Bismarck, Marx, Siemens, Leibniz & Fahrenheit;
and Heisenberg, Mozart, Bach & our “Bundeswehr (2) ”, highly expert in fight.

And also Freud, Bach, Max Planck, Gauss & Roentgen;
And Gutenberg, Geiger, May Bach, Daimler & Beethoven.

And Riemann, our "Mainhattan", Hamburg harbor & our fatherland;
And Benz and Porsche; we pledge to march hand in hand.

[1) Germans call their land as “Bundesrepublik Deutschland”
2) German Army, Navy and Airforce are jointly called “Bundeswehr”
N.B. The persons named in this poem are the greatest scientists, writers, thinkers, musicians, industrialists, inventors……the world has ever seen]
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XI) Voice of New Zealand

Surrounded by Pacific and Tasman, our Steward and Chatham islands,
where long white clouds hovers over our “Aotearoa” lands.

O land of giant Kauri*, and grasslands of Tussock,
Enchanted by ‘Niue’ and ‘Cook Island’, people like to flock.

First nation to grant plebiscite to women & become nuclear free zone;
And aspire for environmental protection, human right & trade free zone.

God bless Judy Bailey** & our queen, the head of our state;
and our port Christchurch; which serves as Antarctica’s gate.

From atop Beehive Parliamentary building let our flag fly high,
And atop Mount Cook (Aoroki***) which dare challenge the sky.

[*Giant Kauri trees symbolize New Zealand.
**Judy Bailey is a national figure (Mother of the Nation) of New Zealand.
***Mount Cook/Aoroki is the highest peak in New Zealand]
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XII ) Voice of United Kingdom

Surrounded by English Channel and Atlantic; O mistress of the sea!
Land of ‘Lady Britannica’, we love, respect and salute thee.

God Save the Queen and King (1); let our ‘Union Jack’ (2) fly high,
From this earth, let our parliamentary democracy (3) never die.

Your empire extended round the globe, where the sun never set,
From Australia to Canada, the present Commonwealth was your asset.

Worthy are your sons: Newton, Faraday, Shakespeare & Darwin,
And Fleming, Thomson, Dickens, Churchill, Rowling & Kelvin.

You taught English to the world, O mighty, powerful nation,
Creator of “Modern World”, you started the Industrial revolution.

Cricket, Wimbledon…...etc, all bear your youthful sportive spirit,
View of Thames (4) and London Bridge truly raise our spirit.

You have taught the world, from hydrogen to gravity,
Blessed and prosperous be our island; we pray to the almighty.

[1)Queen and king are symbolic head of state in UK 2) Union Jack is the National flag of UK 3) Parliamentary Democracy was first introduced in UK 4) Thames river symbolizes England and is a national pride.]
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XIII ) Voice of France

From Mediterranean to English Channel, our land of liberty (1A);
From Rhine to Atlantic, stretches our land of equality and fraternity (1B).

Our nation is full of world’s most popular tourist destinations (2),
Birth land of Napoleon and one of the mightiest nations!

Our overseas territories extend across continent of America,
and Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Ocean & in Antarctica.

High fly over our hexagon nation (3), our flag of yellow, red and white.
We are proud of Charles de Gaulle (4) which announces our might.

[1) French Revolution taught the world: “Liberty, Equality and Fraternity”. It must be mentioned that the statue of liberty, presently standing in USA was a gift from France.
2) According to latest statistics, France attracts maximum number of tourists.
3) Because of its shape, it is often called as hexagonal nation.
4) Charles de Gaule is France’s most famous aircraft carrier and is a National pride.]

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XIV) Voice of South Africa

“O rainbow nation (1)!” Our motto is: unity in diversity,
By non-violence & Satyagraha, we have overcome all adversity.

Bounded by Atlantic and the Indian Ocean, our nation of Eastern Cape,
And “Free State”, “Gauteng”, “Zulu Natal”, “Limpopo” and “Northern Cape”.
Dotted with Baobab trees, lies” Mpumalanga”, “North and West Cape (2)”,

In the land of biodiversity, we speak Xhosa, Zulu, Sotho and English;
And Afrikaans in our holy land, where flows the river 'fish'.

We remember the prison on Robben Island, one of world Heritages,
and Nelson Mandela; let in history book it add several pages.

We firmly denounced apartheid, in rich land of diamond and gold;
God save the King and Queen (3); may they never grow old.

We are proud of the “Star of the South (4)” and the coat of arms,
Truly we love you, land of in infinite beauty and charms.

Yellowwoods, King Protea, Blue crane (5) are our national pride;
And Springbok & Galjoen (6); in a land beautiful as a young bride.

[1) South Africa is generally referred as ‘Rainbow Nation’ because of the the richness of its diversity. 2) All these are the provinces of South Africa 3) King and Queen are the symbolic Head of State. 4) ‘Star of the South’ is the largest cut diamond in the world, which was cut from ‘Cullinan’, the largest uncut diamond ever found. It was found in South Africa. 5) Yellowwood tree, King Protea flower and Blue crane symbolizes South Africa and is considered National symbol.
6) Springbok deer and Galjoen fish are National animal and National fish of South Africa.]
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XV ) Voice of Japan

Land of rising sun-Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu (1);
Long live our emperor; in our land where landed Prince Shotoku (2);

We are proud of our robotics, electronics, Sumo wrestlers and Mt. Fiji (3).
and of Sakura (4), and National Diet (our parliament), & our ‘Kiji’.

Glory to ‘Meiji era (5)’; gloriously making us one of world powers;
Let in our land, Lord Buddha’s blessings abundantly rain in showers.

Let our emperor rule us for eight thousand generations;
Till boulders lush with moss (6); in our holiest of nations!

Our homage to Hiroshima and Nagasaki which perished during war;
Let history of Kofun, Nara, Heain, Jamon & Yoyoi (7)spread wide & far.

[1) These are the four major islands which comprise Japan 2) Prince Shotoku spread Buddhism in Japan and is widely respected. 3) Mount Fiji is the highest peak in Japan
4) Sakura (cherry blossom) is the National flower of Japan 5) Meiji era refers to 45 years reign of Emperor Meiji (National figure of Japan), who was greatly responsible for making Japan a world power. 6) This has been taken from National Anthem of Japan. 7) These were the main dynasties which ruled Japan.]
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XVI ) Voice of Vatican City

God bless the Pope; long live our Pope,
and our Vatican City, in the heart of Europe.

In our Sistine Chapel (1), in the heart of Rome and Italy,
Our Swiss guards protect the arts of Angello & Botticelli.

Our entire country is a world heritage site (2),
High fly our yellow & white flag throughout day & night.

Easter celebration in Peter’s Basilica is truly pompous & grand,
We are proud of ‘Holy See’, our Coat of Arms & our holy land.

We are proud of Apostolic palace, which is pride of Rome,
Long live the Pope in Roman Curia (3); in his peaceful home.

[1) World famous Chapel 2) UNESCO has declared the entire country of Vatican as a World Heritage site 3) Official residence of the Pope.]
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XVII ) Voice of Italy

Our land of Sicily, Sardinia, Po and Tiber valley (1);
Mont Blanc, Alps, Rome, Milan, Venice-our golden Italy.

Liberazine & Italian unification made us highly developed country;
Roman Empire and Renaissance are part of our golden history.

We are proud of Carducci, Deledda, Pirandello, & Marconi;
and da Dinci, Volta, Fibonacci, Fermi, Vivaldi and Rossini (2).

Blessed be our land of the largest number of world heritage sites,
God bless our holy Popes (3), who perform holy religious rites.

[1) All these islands and rivers are integral part of Italy 2) They are the greatest sculptures, scientists, writers………They are National figures and pride of Italy.
3) Vatican city, where the Popes resides, lies in the heart of Rome, the capital of Italy.]
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XVIII) Voice of Kenya

O Kenya! Land of Paul Tergat, Catherine, Ndereba & Keino (1);
And Mount Kenya; lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and Rhino (2)!

Of Swahili and Congolese sound; of Genge & Kapuka beats;
Of Ugoya & Ongolo times & Malaika-our all time hits (3)!

Blessed be our rooster and our lions (4), holding Masai shields;
And Dedan Kimathi & Jomokenyatta (5) & our most fertile fields.

Blessed be Masai Mara, Amboselia, Victoria (6), Turkana & Tsavo;
And Ngugi wa Thiong’o & Henry Rone (7); world cheers bravo!

Washed by Indian Ocean, our holy land has witnessed human evolution (8);
Glory to Lokitaung gorge & Great Rift Valley & Mau Mau revolution!

We are proud of Kente (9), Kitenge, Kanga; our Masai & Swahili culture;
We shelter refugees & welcome those who love wildlife & adventure.

We are proud of Jamhuri day (10), of Fundi Konde, Sheng & Times Tower (11);
And our flag of warrior’s shield and spear, displaying our might and power.

Land of Safari ralley & scenery; from coral reefs to Alpine mountains;
We swear for (12) justice, unity, peace, liberty and self defense.
[1) They are all gratest personalities, and are National figures of Kenya. 2) These five mammals are considered as the greatest five of Africa. Kenya is homeland of all the five species. 3) These refer to the most popular music tunes of Kenya. Ongola Times and Malaika times were Superhit songs in Kenya. 4) Coat of Arms is a National symbol in which Rooster and lions holding Masai shield is depicted. 5) They are National figures and symbolize Kenya. 6) All these, especially Lake Victoria are all pride of Kenya. 7) They are pride of Kenya. And why shouldn’t it be a matter of pride, if someone brings Nobel Prize? 8) Excavation has revealed that humans have actually evolved in Kenya 9) Kente cloth is a National pride of Kenya. 10) It is celebrated as a national holiday in Kenya. 11) Times tower, is presently the tallest Tower/ building in Kenya]
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XIX) Voice of Russia

World’s largest country, stretching acrss Europe and Asia;
With largest and deepest lakes (1), lies our sacred land of Russia.

Blessed be Vladimir Lenin (2); Peter and Catherine the great;
We trust our nuclear arsenals (3) for protection against external threat.

High fly our white, blue and red flag on our highest tower;
And on top of Mount Elbrus (4), announcing our great power.

We are proud of Sputnik (5), and our astronaut Yuri Gagarin (6);
And our Bolshevik revolutionaries (5) & red square at Kremlin (7).

We are proud of St. Basil’s Cathedral and Great Patriotic War,
From Southern Sea to Polar Regions, let God’s blessings rain in shower.

[1)Lake Baikal and Caspian Sea are the deepest and largest lakes in the world.
2) Vladimir Lenin is the father of the Nation 3) Russia once maintained the world’s largest stocks of nuclear weapons. 4) Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Russia
5) Sputnik was the first artificial satellite in the world to be launched into space.
6) Yuri Gagarin was the first astronaut to orbit the earth. 7) Red square at Kremlin is the most historic place of National importance.]
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XX) Voice of Nigeria

I pledge to Nigeria, to be faithful, loyal and honest (1);
And uphold fatherland’s glory, unity, honor & loyalty to my best.
God help us serve Nigeria in full strength and deep earnest.

Our land of Coctue Spectabilis (2), rainbow & diverse complexions;
Glory to Wole Soyinka (3), born in our land of most fertile nations (4).

Unity, faith peace & progress are our motto (5) & national integrity;
We are proud of Niger & Benue (6); eagle & chargers (7) representing dignity.

We lead in International peacekeeping (8) & in list of populous countries;
Let in Olympics and literacy rate (9), our nation always make histories.

[1) This is the pledge schoolchildren take in Nigeria. 2)Coctue Spectrabilis is the National flower of Nigeria 3) Wole Soyinka is one of the most respected National figure of Nigeria. 4) Nigeria boasts one of the most fertile soils in the world. 5) This is the National motto of Nigeria. 6) Niger and Benue are two most important rivers of Nigeria 7) Eagle and chargers are the symbols on the Coats of Arms. 8) Nigeria is a leading country in International Peace keeping and in Olympics]
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XXI) Voice of Uganda

Oh Uganda! Land of beauty; I swear to God and my country;
For unity, liberty and peace; we will strive and to be free (1).

Pearl of our Africa’s crown (2); our land of Lake Victoria (3) and freedom;
Let our flag of black, yellow and red fly all over our kingdom.

Mother temple of Africa, ‘Bahai House’ is our national pride;
and our land of vast minerals and lakes; beautiful as a young bride.

[1) This is the motto of Uganda. Schol children are expected to take this oath.
2) Uganda is known as ‘Parl of Africa’s crown. 3) Lake Victoria is one of the largest lakes in the world.]
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XXII ) Voice of Ghana

Oh Ghana! We pledge for freedom, justice, unity and honesty (1);
God bless our homeland Ghana and assure us of liberty.

Make our nation great and strong; fill our heart with humility,
High fly our flag of black star and preserve our unity (2).

Blessed be Freddy Adu, Kente cloth, Essein and our music hiplife (3);
and our land of gold, timber, cocoa and our music highlife (4).

[1) Schoolchildren of Ghana have to take this pledge 2) these are the motto of people of Ghana 3) Freddy Adu is one of the most respected National figure and symbolizes Ghana
4) Hiplife and Highlife are two most popular song style of Ghana . ‘Kente’ cloth symbolizes Ghana and it is considered as a National symbol]
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XXIII A) Voice of Bangladesh

Kazi Nazrul’s “Bangladesh”; world-poet’s(1) “Golden Bengal”;
Scenic and charming; poet Jeevananada’s(2) “Beautiful Bengal”.

Blessed be your son ‘Muzibar Rehman(3a)’ and poet Nazrul Islam;
Hats off to Mohammed Younis(3b); we offer him respectful ‘Salaam’.

Sunderban, Mawdok mountain, Ganga-Padma(4) makes our land sacred;
Our freedom fighter’s holy bloods have stained our rice fields red.

We are proud of “Martyr’s pillar”, National Parliament & Bagerhat Masjid(5);
We celebrate “Pohela Baisakh”, Id-ul-Fitr and Ul-Adha Id(6).

Everlasting feasting and celebrations; land of countless festivals;
Jackfruit, Hilsa(7), Magpie Robin & Water Lily are our National symbols.

We are brave like Royal Bengal Tiger(8); milk-rice(9) is our favorite dish;
Listening to “Baul Music(10)” & Grandma’s stories are our hearty wish.

Our flag(11) symbolizes rising Sun and green rice fields flourish;
Let from our land, secularism and parliamentary democracy(12) never perish.
[Please see the explanations in English suffixed with this poem (after this Bengali version)]]

XXIII B) Voice of Bangladesh [Bengali version of the above poem]

Vishwokobir ‘Sonar Bangla’, Vidrohi kobir ‘Bangladesh’ (1);
Jeevananonder ‘Rupashi Bangla’, ruper tomar naiko sesh (2);

Tomar putro Sheikh Mujibar Rehman ebong Kazi Nazrul Islam (3);
Maa Sonar Bangla, Mohammed Yunis(3b) keyo janai sawto salaam.

Ganga-Brahmaputa, Sunderban, ebong Mawdok porboter bhumi (4);
Sadhinota Sangramider rawkte laal moder sobuuj dhaner jomi.

Moder gawrbo Saheed Minar, Jatiyo Sanshad, aar Bagerhat Masjid (5);
Aamra manai Pohela Baisakh, Eid-ul-Fitr ebong Ul-Adha-Id (6);

Nobanno, Poush Parbon, Durga Pujo; Baaro Masey tero pawrbo;
Kathal, Ilish, Shama Pakhi, Sada Jawler Lily moder gawrbo (7).

Royal Bengal Tiger (8) er moto veer mora, payesh (9) metaye moder saad;
Baul Sangeet aar Thakurmar Jhuli (10) sunte ke portey chaye baad?

Sobuj dhaner khet ebong uthonto surjer protik moder powtaka (11);
Rastriyata, Dharmaniropekkhota, Samajbad aar Janatantrer (12) bajuk dawnka.

[1) Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore(also called ‘world-poet’) referred Bangladesh as ‘Golden Bengal’ due to its rich fertile soil. The National poet of Bangladesh, Nazrul Islam (who was called ‘The Rebel poet’, since he inspired people against imperialistic rule) proudly mentioned in his poems several times the inspiring and patriotic word ‘Bangladesh’.
2) The great poet Jivananda mentioned Bangladesh as ‘Land of infinite beauty and charm’ and claimed that Bangladesh is a land of green forests and lush rice fields.
3a) Sheikh Mujibar Rehman is the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh. 3b) Mohammed Younis won Nobel Prize.
4) Ganga and Brahmaputra are major rivers of Bangladesh. Sunderban forest, a forst in the largest delta of the world, with mangroves and swarming with tigers, covers the major geographical area of Bangladesh.
‘Mawdok’ is the highest mountain range in Bangladesh.
5) These monuments and structures are National pride and symbolizes Bangladesh.
6) These are major festivals of Bangladesh.
7) Jackfruit, Hilsa fish, Magpie Robin, and white water Lily are respectively, the National fruit, the National fish, the National bird and National flower of Bangladesh.
8) The mighty and majestic Royal Bengal tiger is symbol of Bangladesh.
9) ‘Payesh’ or milk rice is one of the most delicious dish of Bangladesh.
10) ‘Baul Music’ is very old traditional music of Bangladesh, which is rapidly perishing from the face of the earth.
11) The National flag of Bangladesh is a red circle on a green background, which symbolizes rising sun on the lush green rice fields.
12) These were the principles on which the constitution of Bangladesh was based.

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