तेरा चेहरा कितना सुहाना लगता है,
तेरे आगे चाँद पुराना लगता है।
तिरछे तिरछे तीर नज़र के लगते हैं,
सीधा सीधा दिल पे निशाना लगता है।
आग का क्या है पल दो पल में लगती है,
बुझते बुझते एक ज़माना लगता है।
पाँव ना बाँधा पंछी का पर बाँधा,
आज का बच्चा कितना सियाना लगता है।
सच तो ये है फूल का दिल भी छलनी है,
हँसता चेहरा एक बहाना लगता है।
सुनने वाले घंटों सुनते रहते हैं,
मेरा फ़साना सबका फ़साना लगता है।
कैफ बता क्या तेरी ग़ज़ल में जादू है,
बच्चा बच्चा तेरा दीवाना लगता है।
Your face looks so beautiful,
In front of it, the moon seems old.
The crooked arrows of your glance strike,
They feel like a direct shot to the heart.
What is fire? It starts in a moment or two,
But takes an eternity to extinguish.
They didn't tie the bird's foot, but its wing,
Today's child seems so wise.
The truth is, even a flower's heart is pierced,
A smiling face seems like just a pretense.
Those who listen, keep listening for hours,
My story feels like everyone's story.
Kaif, tell me, what magic is in your ghazal,
Every child seems to be your admirer.
The Lingering Embers of Pain: A Reflection on Hurt
The ghazal then takes a turn towards the more somber, yet equally profound, aspects of human experience:
"आग का क्या है पल दो पल में लगती है,
बुझते बुझते एक ज़माना लगता है।"
(What is fire? It starts in a moment or two,
But takes an eternity to extinguish.)
This powerful metaphor speaks to the nature of pain, hurt, or even anger. Just like a fire, these emotions can ignite quickly and seemingly effortlessly. However, the process of healing and overcoming them is often a long and arduous journey, taking "an eternity to extinguish." This couplet resonates with anyone who has experienced the lasting impact of emotional wounds, highlighting the enduring nature of grief and healing.
Modern Wisdom and Subtle Control: The Astuteness of Today's Youth
Kaif then offers a fascinating observation on the evolving world and the younger generation:
"पाँव ना बाँधा पंछी का पर बाँधा,
आज का बच्चा कितना सियाना लगता है।"
(They didn't tie the bird's foot, but its wing,
Today's child seems so wise.)
This couplet cleverly illustrates a shift in approach – from direct constraint (tying the foot) to a more subtle, yet equally effective, form of control (tying the wing). It's a commentary on the perceived shrewdness and astuteness of "today's child" or the modern generation. They are seen as possessing a deeper understanding of manipulation or strategic thinking, moving beyond overt limitations to more nuanced forms of influence. This line invites contemplation on societal changes and the changing dynamics of power and control.
The Concealed Truth: Behind Every Smile
The ghazal continues to explore the complexities of human emotion:
"सच तो ये है फूल का दिल भी छलनी है,
हँसता चेहरा एक बहाना लगता है।"
(The truth is, even a flower's heart is pierced,
A smiling face seems like just a pretense.)
This profound couplet delves into the hidden sorrows that often lie beneath a cheerful exterior. The "flower's heart," a symbol of delicate beauty, is depicted as "pierced," suggesting underlying pain or vulnerability. A "smiling face" is then revealed as merely a "pretense" or a facade, masking deeper emotions. This speaks to the universal human experience of putting on a brave face while grappling with internal struggles, reminding us that appearances can often be deceiving.
The Universal Storyteller: A Tale for Every Heart
The penultimate couplet highlights the universal appeal of the poet's narrative:
"सुनने वाले घंटों सुनते रहते हैं,
मेरा फ़साना सबका फ़साना लगता है।"
(Those who listen, keep listening for hours,
My story feels like everyone's story.)
Here, Kaif expresses the profound connection he shares with his audience. His "story" or "tale" ("fasana") is not just his own; it resonates so deeply with listeners that it feels like "everyone's story." This speaks to the power of shared human experiences, emotions, and struggles that transcend individual boundaries. It's a testament to the poet's ability to tap into universal themes that strike a chord with a diverse audience.
The Magic of Kaif's Craft: A Poet Beloved by All
The ghazal concludes with a self-referential yet humble acknowledgment of its impact:
"कैफ बता क्या तेरी ग़ज़ल में जादू है,
बच्चा बच्चा तेरा दीवाना लगता है।"
(Kaif, tell me, what magic is in your ghazal,
Every child seems to be your admirer.)
This closing couplet directly addresses the poet, Kaif, and marvels at the "magic" within his ghazal. The observation that "every child seems to be your admirer" underscores the widespread appeal and accessibility of his poetry. It suggests that the depth and beauty of his verses transcend age, captivating hearts across generations. It's a beautiful tribute to the enduring power of his art.
Conclusion: A Ghazal for the Ages
Kaif's ghazal, "Tera Chehra Kitna Suhana Lagta Hai," is a masterpiece of Urdu poetry. Its beauty lies not only in its elegant language and evocative imagery but also in its ability to explore profound human emotions and observations on life. From the ethereal beauty of a beloved's face to the subtle wisdom of modern times and the universal nature of human pain, this ghazal offers a rich tapestry of thought and feeling. It's a timeless piece that continues to resonate with readers and listeners, cementing Kaif's place as a poet of immense talent and enduring appeal. Whether you are a seasoned lover of ghazals or new to the genre, this poem is sure to leave a lasting impression.
No comments:
Post a Comment