Indian actress Lehar Khan, known for her captivating roles in films like Jalpari: The Desert Mermaid (2012), Parched (2015), Brahmāstra (2022), and Jawan (2023), shared a poem on her Instagram with her 203K followers in July 2024. The poem, inspired by the book Eden Abandoned: The Story of Lilith, reflects themes of empowerment, individuality, and defiance against societal expectations.
Lehar’s poem, “I would rather be,” draws inspiration from Lilith, a figure from Jewish mythology often portrayed as Adam’s first wife. Unlike Eve, Lilith was said to be made from the same earth as Adam, not from his rib, symbolizing equality and independence. This narrative aligns with Lehar’s message of breaking free from patriarchal structures and embracing personal freedom.
Here’s the Lehar Khan poem she shared:
“I would rather be”
I am not the Eve you can tie up in your house
I m the Lilith who runs wild
I m made with the same clay as you
I was not made out of you
Not for you
But like you
And so how do you expect me to bow down
I have the same spine as you
Strong and unbendable
The only difference is
You want everyone to kneel in front of you
While I m okay with standing eye to eye
Isn’t that what scares you
That’s when you look away
I would rather be your Lilith
And leave
Than be your Eve
And stay forever.
– लehaर