This awesome song has been penned by Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore…..The lyrics are….

Jodi tor đak shune keu na ashe tôbe êkla chôlo re,]2
[Tobe ekla chôlo, êkla chôlo, êkla chôlo, êkla chôlo re.]2

[terii aawaz pe koii na aae to phir chal akelaa re]-2
he chal akelaa chal akelaa chal akelaa chal akelaa re
he chal akelaa chal akelaa chal akelaa chal akelaa re
[terii aawaz pe koii na aae to phir chal akelaa re] -2

yadi koii bhii na bole Ore O re O abhaage koii bhii na bole
[yadi sabhii mukh mo.r rahe sab Daraa kare] -2
tab Dare binaa o tuu muktaka.nTh apnii baat bol akela re
o tuu muktaka.nTh apnii baat bol akela re
[terii aawaz pe koii na aae to phir chal akelaa re]-2

yadi lauT sab chale Ore O re O abhaage lauT sab chale
[yadi raat gahrii chaltii koii gaur na kare] -2
tab path ke kaa.nTe O tuu lahuu lohit charaN tale Dal akelaa re
O tuu lahuu lohit charaN tale Dal akelaa re
[terii aawaz pe koii na aae to phir chal akelaa re]-2

yadi diyaa na jale Ore O re O abhaage diyaa na jale
[yadi bad.rii aa.ndhii raat mei.n dwaar ba.ndh sab kare] -2
tab wajra shiKhaa se tuu hriday deep jalaa aur jal akelaa re
O tuu hrUday diip jalaa aur jal akelaa re
[terii aawaz pe koii na aae to phir chal akelaa re] -2
he chal akelaa chal akelaa chal akelaa chal akelaa re
[Jodi tor đak shune keu na ashe tôbe êkla chôlo re,]2
Tobe ekla chôlo, êkla chôlo, êkla chôlo, êkla chôlo re.
terii aawaz pe koii na aae to phir chal akelaa re

Posting the English translation too…….

If they answer not to thy call walk alone,
If they are afraid and cower mutely facing the wall,
O thou unlucky one,
open thy mind and speak out alone.
If they turn away, and desert you when crossing the wilderness,
O thou unlucky one,
trample the thorns under thy tread,
and along the blood-lined track travel alone.
If they do not hold up the light when the night is troubled with storm,
O thou unlucky one,
with the thunder flame of pain ignite thy own heart
and let it burn alone.

ग़र धूप न हो, तो छाँव ही क्या ?
रात न हो, तो सुबह ही क्या ?
गुज़रने को तो ज़िंदगी गुज़र ही जाती है….
ठोकर न लगी तो रोज़ की इस
कदमताल का मज़ा ही क्या ?
ग़र आँसू नहीं तो मुस्कान ही क्या ?
सूखा न हो तो बारिश की बूँद भी क्या ?
ज़िंदगी के रास्ते अच्छा है ग़र आसां हों…..
पर मुश्किलें न हों, तो मंज़िल पा जाना ही क्या ?
जब निराशा नहीं तो आशा ही कैसी ?
और हार न हो तो जीत भी कैसी ?
आगे बढ़ते जाना अच्छा तो है मगर….
ज़मीं न देखी तो आसमां पा लेना ही क्या ?
मणि

The English translation of this poem is given below…..

If there is no Sun…..

Then what use is Shade?

What is morning without night?

Life keeps going on…..

But if one never stumbles….

What fun is there in this daily marchpast?

If no tears, then what is a smile worth?

If no draught, what is a drop of rain?

It is good if life’s paths are easy…….

But if there are no obstacles,

What is achieving one’s aim worth?

If no despair, then no hope

If no defeat, no victory….

It is good to keep on moving ahead but….

If one has not seen the land….

What is the use of reaching to the skies?

Mani

पूजनीय प्रभु हमारे भाव उज्ज्वल कीजिये
Reverend God please help us to have pious feelings
छोड़ देवें छल-कपट को, मानसिक बल दीजिये
May we leave treachery, and be strong in mind and spirit
वेद की बोलें ऋचाएँ, सत्य को धारण करें
May we recite Veda-mantras , and hold on to the truth
हर्ष में हों मग्न सारे, शोक-सागर से तरें
May all of us be jubilant in joy, and be delivered from the sea of sorrow
अश्वमेधादिक रचाएँ, यज्ञ पर-उपकार को
May we perform Ashvamedha yajnas and help others
धर्म-मर्यादा चला कर लाभ दें संसार को
May we always live with faith and dignity and benefit the world
नित्य श्रद्धा-भक्ति से यज्ञादि हम करते रहें
May we keep on performing yajnas regularly with faith and reverence
रोग-पीड़ित विश्व के संताप सब हरते रहें
And help to alleviate the world from the pain of disease and suffering
भावना मिट जाए मन से पाप-अत्याचार की
May our mind be free from the feelings of sin and atrocities
कामनाएँ पूर्ण होवें यज्ञ से नर-नार की
May the desires of all men and women be fulfilled by Yajna
लाभकारी हो हवन हर जीवधारी के लिए
May the hawan be beneficial for every living being
वायु-जल सर्वत्र हों शुभ गन्ध को धारण किए
May the air-water everywhere hold the auspicious smell
स्वार्थ-भाव मिटे हमारा, प्रेम-पथ विस्तार हो
May we get rid of our selfish feelings and enhance the path of love
“इदन्न-मम” का सार्थक प्रत्येक में व्यवहार हो
May we truly believe that “Nothing is mine” everything belongs to God and put it into practice
प्रेमरस में तृप्त होकर वन्दना हम कर रहे
We worship you feeling contented with love
नाथ करुणा-रूप करुणा आपकी सब पर रहे
O Lord, our protector may your kindness always be bestowed on everyone

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkvV2BGpe9k

The lyrics and translation are taken from wikipedia…….

वैष्णव जन तो तेने कहिये जे पीड पराई जाणे रे,

पर दु:खे उपकार करे तोये मन अभिमान न आणे रे,

सकल लोकमां सहुने वंदे निंदा न करे केनी रे,

वाच काछ मन निश्चल राखे धन धन जननी तेनी रे,

समदृष्टि ने तृष्णा त्यागी, परस्त्री जेने मात रे,

जिह्वा थकी असत्य न बोले,परधन नव झाले हाथ रे,

मोह माया व्यापे नहि जेने,दृढ़ वैराग्य जेना मनमां रे,

रामनाम शुं ताली रे लागी,सकल तीरथ तेना तनमां रे,

वणलोभी ने कपटरहित छे,काम क्रोध निवार्या रे,

भणे नरसैयॊ तेनु दरसन करतां,कुल एकोतेर तार्या रे ॥

English Translation……

He who understands the pain of others is one of God’s own.

Helping others in sorrow does not reduce his humility.

This person respects all people in the world,

and does not condemn or criticize anyone.

He is pure in speech, deed and thought.

His mother is blessed indeed!

He is equanimous and has given up all desires.

To him, other women are [equivalent to] mothers.

He never speaks the untruth, not even if his tongue is tired.

He does not covet others’ wealth.

Delusion and attachment do not affect him,

his mind is firm in detachment.

He is ever engrossed in God’s name and meditation,

and he embodies all places of pilgrimage.

Such a person has no greed and deceit.

He has overcome lust and anger.

Narsi says: Such a person is worthy of worship,

and alone elevates his entire race.

The lyrics and their English translation are given below….

Ek pyar ka nagma hai

It is a Song of Love

Maujon ki ravaani hai

It is a flow of ecstasy

Zindagi aur kuchh bhi nahin

Life is nothing else but

Teri meri kahaani hai

A story of you and me

Kuchh paakar khona hai

Have to lose something after gaining

Kuchh khokar paana hai

Have to gain something after losing

Jeevan ka matalab to

The meaning of Life is

Aana aur jaana hai

Coming and Going

Do pal ke jeevan se

From a few moments of life

Ek umr churaani hai

Have to steal a lifetime

Zindagi aur kuchh bhi nahin

Life is nothing else but

Teri meri kahaani hai

A story of you and me

Ek pyar ka nagma hai

It is a Song of Love

Tu dhaar hai nadiya ki

You are the current of river

Mein tera kinara hoon

I am your shore

Tu mera sahara hai

You are my refuge

Mein tera sahara hoon

I am your refuge

Aankhon mein samandar hai

There is an ocean in eyes

Aashaon ka paani hai

Which has waters of our hopes

Zindagi aur kuchh bhi nahi

Life is nothing else but

Teri meri kahaani hai

A story of you and me

Ek pyar ka nagma hai

It is a Song of love

Toofaan to aana hai

The storm has to come

Aakar chale jaana hai

It has to go after coming

Baadal hai ye kuchh pal ka

This cloud is only there for a few moments

Chhaakar dhal jaana hai

After clouding over, it will disappear

Parchhaainyaan reh jaatin

Only shadows are left

Reh jaati nishaani hai

Souvenirs are left

Zindagi aur kuchh bhi nahin

Life is nothing else but

Teri meri kahaani hai

A story of you and me

Ek pyar ka nagma hai

It is a Song of love

Recently famous Indian Singer Shamshad Begum left all of us at the age of 94 for her heavenly abode. We held a programme remembering her. In this video, Dr.Ila Prakash speaks about Shamshadji and I sang her song “Bachpan ke din.’ Posting the lyrics and their English translation below….

Hoooo

Bachpan Ke Din Bhulaa Na Denaa

Bachpan Ke Din Bhulaa Na Denaa

….Do not forget these childhood days

Aaj Hanse Kal Rulaa Na Denaa – 2

….Today we laugh but don’t let me cry tomorrow

Hoooo

Bachapan Ke Din Bhulaa Na Denaa

….Do not forget these childhood days

(Lambe Hain Jeevan Ke Raste

….The paths of life are long

Aao Chale Ham Gaate Haste)-2

….Let us walk on them laughing and singing

Gaate, Hanste

….laughing and singing

Aaa…. Aaaaa….

(Door Desh Ek Mahal Banaayein

…..Let us build a palace in a far-off land

Pyaar Kaa Jis Mein Deep Jalaayein)-2

…..Where we will light a lamp of love

Deep Jalaayein

……lamp of love

Deep Jalaakar Bujhaa Na Denaa

……After lighting this lamp do not put it off

Aaj Hanse Kal Rulaa Na Denaa

….Today we laugh but don’t let me cry tomorrow

Hoooo

Bachpan Ke Din Bhulaa Na Denaa

….Do not forget these childhood days

(Rut Badale Yaa Jeevan Beete

…..Seasons may change or life may go on

Dil Ke Taraane Hon Na Puraane)-2

……The melodies of heart never grow old

Aahaha…Aahahaha…….

Nainon Mein Ban Kar Sapne Suhaane

……My eyes see wonderful dreams

Aayenge Ek Din Yahee Zamaane

……of these times coming one day

AaHaaaaaaa……

Nainon Mein Ban Kar Sapne Suhaane

……My eyes see wonderful dreams

Aayenge Ek Din Yahee Zamaane

……of these times coming one day

Yahee Zamaane

…….These times

Yaad Hamaaree Mitaa Na Denaa

…..Do not erase my memories

Aaj Hanse Kal Rulaa Na Denaa

….Today we laugh but don’t let me cry tomorrow

Hooooo

Bachapan Ke Din Bhulaa Na Denaa

….Do not forget these childhood days

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVdFu-nyAEM

‘Zindagi Pyaar Ka Geet Hai’ is a song originally rendered by Lataji for the movie ‘Souten’….I have combined the song with a few lines I wrote about Life….the lines and the English translation are given below……
Bulbule-si ye zindagi….
…..Life just like a bubble

Pal-pal kitne roop badalti-
…..Every moment, changing faces

Kabhie to saare rangon se chhalak uthati,
…..Sometimes spills over with all the colours

Kabhie sirf saleti-si reh jaati
……Sometimes is left coloured only in greys

Ek hi pal…phool mehek uthate,
……One moment,flowers spread their fragrance

Man gaa uthate, hanste-khelte, ithalaate
…..Hearts sing,dance and play with happiness

Dooje hi pal…muskaata chand pheeka-sa ho jaata
…..Next moment,the smiling moon fades away

Raat ke ghane andhkaar mein na jaane kahan gum ho jaata
…..And disappears in the deep darkness of night

Kabhie shaant nadi-si behti jaati
…..Sometimes, flows on like a peaceful river

Kabhie ek aandhi sab tehes-nehes kar jaati
…..At other times, a storm wreaks havoc

Kabhie saare jawaab de…hairaan kar jaati
….Surprises sometimes by giving answers to all the questions

To kabhie khud hi ek sawaal ban jaati
…..At other times, becomes a question itself

Bulbule-si ye zindagi…..
…. Life just like a bubble

Bas abhi thi aur abhi nahin
….Just now was there and next moment no more

Kabhie aansoo kabhie hansi bankar-
….Becomes a tear in a moment and laughter in another

Kathputli-sa sabko nachaati
….Makes everyone dance like a puppet

Bulbule-si ye zindagi…….
….Life just like a bubble Mani

Lyrics of the song and english translation are as follows……

(Zindagi Pyaar Ka Geet Hai
ise Har Dil Ko Gaana Padega) -2
….Life is a song of love That every heart will have to sing
zindagi Gham Ka Sagar Bhi Hai
….Life is also an ocean of sorrow

hanske Us Paar Jaana Padega
….which everyone has to cross smiling

jis Ka Jitna Ho Aanchal Yahaan Par
….Whatever one’s capacity

us Ko Saugaat Utni Milegi
….Gifts are bestowed on him accordingly

la La La, La La La, La La La La La La La~

jis Ka Jitna Ho Aanchal Yahaan Par
….Whatever one’s capacity

us Ko Saugaat Utni Milegi
….Gifts are bestowed on him accordingly

phool Jeevan Mein Gar Na Khile To
….If flowers do not bloom in life

kaanton Se Bhi Nibhaana Padega
….One may have to get on with thorns too

zindagi Pyaar Ka Geet Hai
ise Har Dil Ko Gaana Padega
….Life is a song of love That every heart will have to sing
hai Agar Door Manzil To Kya
….How does it matter if the destination is far-off

raasta Bhi Hain Mushkil To Kya
…..How does it matter if the path is difficult

la La La, La La La, La La La La La La La~

hai Agar Door Manzil To Kya
….How does it matter if the destination is far-off

raasta Bhi Hain Mushkil To Kya
…..How does it matter if the path is difficult
raat Taaron Bhari Na Mile To
….If one does not get a starlit sky

dil Ka Deepak Jalaana Padega
…..Then light a lamp in your heart

zindagi Pyaar Ka Geet Hai
ise Har Dil Ko Gaana Padega
….Life is a song of love That every heart will have to sing

zindagi Ek Paheli Bhi Hai
….Life is also a riddle

sukh Dukh Ki Saheli Bhi Hai
….is also a friend in happiness and sorrow

la La La, La La La, La La La La La La La~

zindagi Ek Paheli Bhi Hai
….Life is also a riddle

sukh Dukh Ki Saheli Bhi Hai
….is also a friend in happiness and sorrow
zindagi Ek Wachan Bhi To Hai
….Life is also a promise

jise Sab Ko Nibhaana Padega
…..That everyone will have to fulfill

zindagi Pyaar Ka Geet Hai
ise Har Dil Ko Gaana Padega
….Life is a song of love That every heart will have to sing
zindagi Gham Ka Sagar Bhi Hai
hanske Us Paar Jaana Padega
….Life is also an ocean of sorrow That everyone has to cross smiling

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQb82OUNCAI

(Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

Koi vastu nahin aisi jise sewa mein laaun mein) 2

…….There is nothing which I can use for this purpose

Karun kis taur aawahan ki tum sarvatra vyaapak ho 2

……How do I call upon you as you are Universal, present everywhere

Niraadar hai bulaane ko ,agar ghanti bajaaun mein

…….It is disrespectful if I ring a bell to call upon you

Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

Tumhin ho moorti mein bhi, tumhi vyaapak ho phoolon mein

……You are present in statues as well as flowers

Bhala Bhagwaan par Bhagwaan ko kyun-kar chadhaaun mein

……How do I offer God himself to God

Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

Lagaana bhog kuchh tumko, ye ek apmaan karna hai 2

……Trying to feed you is an insult

Khilaata hai jo sab jag ko, use kyun-kar khilaaun mein

…….You feed the whole world, how can I feed you

Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

Tumhaari jyoti se roshan hain Suraj ,Chaand aur Taare 2

…..Your radiance lights up Sun, Moon and Stars

Mahaa andher hai kaise tumhein Deepak dikhaaun mein

…..It is very unfortunate if I show a lamp to you

Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

Bhujaaein hain naa gardan hai naa seena hai naa peshaani 2

…..You don’t have arms, neck, chest or forehead

Tum ho nirlep Naarayan, kahaan chandan lagaaun mein

……Nothing can be applied to you God, where do I put the sandalwood paste

Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

Bade naadaan hain we jan jo ghadte aapki moorat 2

….Ignorant are those who make your idols

Banaata hai jo sab jag ko use kyun-kar banaaun mein

…..You create the whole world, how can I create you

Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

Koi vastu nahin aisi jise sewa mein laaun mein

…….There is nothing which I can use for this purpose

Ajab hairaan hun Bhagwan,tumhein kyun-kar rijhaaun mein 2

…..I am strangely perplexed Dear God , How do I please you

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqEMPNoVpc4

This is a Lori/Lullaby, I love to sing, I translated the words to English as best as I could…..posting the lyrics and the English translation below…..

Nanhi Kali Sone Chali

….The little flower-bud is going to sleep
Hawa Dheere Aana

….Breeze! Please blow gently

Neend Bhare, Pankh Liye, Jhoolaa Jhula Jaana

….In your sleep-laden wings, rock her as in a cradle
Nanhi Kali Sone Chali

….The little flower-bud is going to sleep

Hawa Dheere Aana

….Breeze! Please blow gently

Neend Bhare, Pankh Liye, Jhoola Jhula Jaana

….In your sleep-laden wings, rock her as in a cradle
Nanhi Kali Sone Chali

….The little flower-bud is going to sleep

Chaand Kiran Si Gudiya Naazon Ki Hai Pali  2

…..The Doll who is like a moon-ray has been brought up very delicately with care
Aaj Agar Chaandaniya Aana Meri Gali

…..Dear moonlight! If today you come my way
Gun Gun Gun Geet Koi Haule Haule Gaana

…..Hum a song to her gently
Neend Bhare Pankh Liye, Jhoola Jhula Jaana

….In your sleep-laden wings, rock her as in a cradle

Resham Ki Dor Agar Pairon Ko Uljhaaye  2

…..If a silk-chord entangle her feet
Ghungharu Ka Daana Koi Shor Machaa Jaaye

…..If musical grain from her anklet makes a noise
Raani Meri Jaage To Phir Nindiya Tu Behlaana

…..If my Queen wakes up, then Sleep! You amuse her
Neend Bhare, Pankh Liye, Jhoola Jhula Jaana

….In your sleep-laden wings, rock her as in a cradle
Nanhi Kali Sone Chali Hawa Dheere Aana

….The little flower-bud is going to sleep, Breeze! Please blow gently

Thank you God for my share of heaven

As the day changes colours from the bright daybreak to the blue dusk

The Sun showering all its golden blessings

And sometimes being too naughty,blinding my eyes

The moon lighting up the sky with its smile just for me

The trees, so-green, nodding their heads after a cozy tête-à-tête

The gentle caressing breeze whispers their tales

Two humming birds flowing in for a rendezvous

But leaving too early, bothered by the worldly beings

The dear snail invites itself as a pleasant surprise

The little squirrels racing to and fro

Professor Cuckoo gives amazing music lessons

And he goes “Koo-o-oo Koo-o-oo”

As I try to follow like a good pupil-

Raindrops help too playing a sweet rhythm

My heart in a blessed daze just sings…

“How can I not thank you Dear God

For this divine gift-A Share of Your Heaven”

Mani

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hCxhpIf1wo

The Lyrics and their English Translation are…..

Madhuban khushboo detaa hai,

… Sweet forest gives fragrance

Saagar saawan detaa hai

… Sea gives rain

Jeenaa uskaa jeenaa hai,

… One is said to have lived a life

Jo auron ko jeewan detaa hai

… If he gives Life to others

Madhuban khushboo detaa hai

… Sweet forest gives fragrance

Sooraj na ban paaye to,

…. If you can’t be Sun

Ban ke deepak jaltaa chal

…. Light yourself like a lamp

Sooraj na ban paaye to,

…. If you can’t be Sun

Ban ke deepak jaltaa chal

…. Light yourself like a lamp

Phool milen yaa angaare,

…. Whether  you get flowers or burning coals

Sach ki raahon pe chaltaa chal

…. Walk on the path of Truth

Sach ki raahon pe chaltaa chal

…. Walk on the path of Truth

Pyaar dilon ko detaa hai,

… He gives love to hearts

Ashqon ko daaman detaa hai

… Extends sympathy for tears

Jeenaa uskaa jeenaa hai,

… One is said to have lived a life

Jo auron ko jeewan detaa hai

… If he gives Life to others

Madhuban khushboo detaa hai,

… Sweet forest gives fragrance

Saagar saawan detaa hai

… Sea gives rain

Madhuban khushboo detaa hai

… Sweet forest gives fragrance

Chalti hai lehraa ke pawan,

…. As the swaying breeze blows

Ke saans sabhie ki chalti rahe

…. May everyone keep on breathing

Chalti hai lehraa ke pawan,

…. As the swaying breeze blows

ke saans sabhie ki chalti rahe

…. May everyone keep on breathing

Logon ne tyaag diye jeewan,

…. People have sacrificed their lives

Ke preet dilon mein palti rahe

…. So that love keeps on growing in hearts

Ke preet dilon mein palti rahe

…. So that love keeps on growing in hearts

Dil wo dil hai jo auron ko,

…. A heart is truly a heart only if

Apni dhadkan detaa hai

…. It gives its heart-beat to others

Jeenaa uskaa jeenaa hai,

… One is said to have lived a life

Jo auron ko jeewan detaa hai

… If he gives Life to others

Madhuban khushboo detaa hai,

… Sweet forest gives fragrance

Saagar saawan detaa hai

… Sea gives rain

Madhuban khushboo detaa hai

… Sweet forest gives fragrance

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6Po2aue7tA

This is one of my favourite folk-songs…Have uploaded it earlier in 2009 too, re-uploading it today to wish everyone A Very Happy Teej….From left to right are My Bhabhi, Mataji, Mummy and me…all of us always sing these songs every year at home to celebrate Saawan and Teej…This time I decided to record and upload the team-effort Also posting the lyrics below which I have tried to translate in English to the best of my ability…….

Galin galin Manra phirey-2
….The Bangle-seller wanders from street to street
Ari Bibi, Manra ko leyna bulwaaye
….O sister, please call the bangle-seller
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Kaun disa se Manra aayee hai?-2
…. From which direction the bangle-seller has come?
Aur kaun disa ko Manra jaaye?
…..And to which direction does the bangle-seller go?
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Poorab disa se Manra aayee hai-2
….The bangle-seller comes from the East direction
Aur Paschchim disa ko Manra jaaye
…..And the bangle-seller goes in the West direction
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Hari re Jingali re Manra naa pehrun-2
….O bangle-seller, I will not wear green Jingali (A special collection of bangles)
Are manra, hare mere Rajaji ke baag, Maharajaji ke baag
….O bangle-seller, because my King of King’s( loved one’s) gardens are green
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Kaali re Jingali re Manra naa pehrun-2
….O bangle-seller, I will not wear black Jingali (A special collection of bangles)
Are Manra, kale mere Rajaji ke baal Maharajaji ke baal
….O bangle-seller, black are my King of King’s(Loved one’s) hair
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Laal re Jingali re Manra naa pehrun- 2
….O bangle-seller, I will not wear red Jingali (A special collection of bangles)
Are Manra, Laal mere Rajaji ke honth , Maharajaji ke honth
….O bangle-seller, red are my King of King’s(loved one’s) lips
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Peeli re Jingali re Manra naa pehrun-2
….O bangle-seller, I will not wear yellow Jingali ( A special collection of bangles)
Are Manra, peele mere Rajaji ke mehel, Maharajaji ke mehel
….O bangle-seller, yellow are my King of King’s palaces
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Neeli re Jingali re Manra naa pehrun-2
…..O bangle-seller, I will not wear blue Jingali ( A special collection of bangles)
Are Manra, neele mere Rajaji ke Gudhal, Maharajaji ke gudhal
…..O bangle-seller, blue are my King of King’s (Loved one’s) horses
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Shwet re Jingali re Manra naa pehrun-2
….O bangle-seller, I will not wear white Jingali ( A special collection of bangles)
Are Manra, shwet mere Rajaji ke vastra, Maharajaji ke vastra
….O bangle-seller, white are my King of King’s(loved one’s) clothes
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life
Aisi Jingali re Manra tu pehraa-2
….O bangle-seller, give me such a Jingali ( A special collection of bangles) to wear
Jisse jag saara jag-mag hoye
….Which makes the whole world shine
Choora to meri jaan, Choora to haathi-daant ka
….Choora( A large-sized broad bangle) made from ivory is my life

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDLwKBZ1gKg

This is another folk-song we sing in the rainy season to celebrate monsoons, in Western Uttar-Pradesh…..Posting the lyrics of the song below, have also tried to translate each line in English….

Jhulwa jhulat mohe
….As I was swaying on a swing
Naagin das gayee jee
….A (female) snake bit me
Aeji koi das gayee, Hambey! Koi das gayee
….O Dear! It stung me, Yes! It stung me
Anguli ki por
….Tip of my finger
Jhulwa jhulat mohe
….As I was swaying on a swing
Naagin das gayee jee
….A (female) snake bit me

Saasu hamaari sun ke roye padin jee-2
….My mother-in-law started weeping when she heard this
Aeji koi nanadi ne, Hambey! Koi nanadi ne khayee hai pachhaar
….O Dear! My sister-in-law, Yes! My sister-in-law has fainted
Saiyaan hamaare sunke hans pade jee-2
….My beloved laughed when he heard this
Aeji koi unsi to, Hambey! Koi unsi to laaun do-chaar
….O Dear! Yes Dear! I can bring many like her

‘Saare Jahaan Se Achchha’ famously known as ‘Tarana-e-Hindi’ was written by Shri Muhammad Iqbal…..I have taken the lyrics and English translation from Wikipedia, posting them below….

sāre jahāñ se acchā hindostāñ hamārā
ham bulbuleñ haiñ us kī vuh gulsitāñ hamārā

parbat vuh sab se ūñchā, hamsāyah āsmāñ kā
vuh santarī hamārā, vuh pāsbāñ hamārā

godī meñ kheltī haiñ us kī hazāroñ nadiyāñ
gulshan hai jin ke dam se rashk-e janāñ hamārā

mażhab nahīñ sikhātā āpas meñ bair rakhnā
hindī haiñ ham, vat̤an hai hindostāñ hamārā

kuch bāt hai kih hastī miṭtī nahīñ hamārī
sadiyoñ rahā hai dushman daur-e zahāñ hamārā

sāre jahāñ se acchā hindostāñ hamārā
sāre jahāñ se acchā
maʿlūm kyā kisī ko dard-e nihāñ hamārā!
sāre jahāñ se acchā hindostāñ hamārā
ham bulbuleñ haiñ us kī vuh gulsitāñ hamārā

English translation is as follows…..

Better than the entire world, is our Hindustan,
We are its nightingales, and it (is) our garden abode

That tallest mountain, that shade-sharer of the sky,
It (is) our sentry, it (is) our watchman

In its lap frolic those thousands of rivers,
Whose vitality makes our garden the envy of Paradise.

Religion does not teach us to bear ill-will among ourselves
We are of Hind, our homeland is Hindustan.

Such is our existence that it cannot be erased
Even though, for centuries, the cycle of time has been our enemy.

Better than the entire world, is our Hindustan,
Better than the entire world,
What does any one know of our hidden pain?
Better than the entire world, is our Hindustan,
We are its nightingales, and it (is) our garden abode

Lyrics in Hindi are…..

सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा
हम बुलबुलें हैं इसकी वो गुलसिताँ हमारा

परबत वो सब से ऊँचा हमसायह आसमाँ का
वो संतरी हमारा वो पासबाँ हमारा

गोदी में खेलती है इसकी हज़ारों नदियाँ
गुलशन हैं जिनके दम से रश्क-ए-जनाँ हमारा

मज़हब नहीं सिखाता आपस में बैर रखना
हिन्दी हैं हम वतन है हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा

कुछ बात है कि हस्ती मिटती नहीं हमारी
सदियों रहा है दुश्मन दौर-ए-जहाँ हमारा

सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा
सारे जहाँ से अच्छा
मालूम क्या किसी को दर्द-ए-निहाँ हमारा
सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा
हम बुलबुलें हैं इसकी वो गुलसिताँ हमारा

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1f3mT-Bolks

Raksha Bandhan is a festival to celebrate the bond between a brother and a sister. A sister ties a Rakhi ( a silk thread) on her brother’s hand and asks him to protect her always….The brother in return promises to take care of her always……

Posting this song to wish A Happy Raksha Bandhan to all. The lyrics of the song are as below, I have also tried to translate each line in English….

(Mere Bhaiya, Mere Chanda, Mere Anmol Ratan

….My brother, my moon, my priceless gem

Tere badle mein zamaane ki koi cheez na loon) -2

….In your place I can never take anything that this world has to offer

Teri saanson ki kasam khaake, hawa chalti hai

…..The breeze blows after pledging by your breath

Tere chehre ki jhalak paake, bahaar aati hai

…..The bloom starts after a glimpse of your face

Ek pal bhi meri nazaron se tu jo ojhal ho

…..If you hide from my vision even for one moment

Har taraf meri nazar tujhko pukaar aati hai

…..My eyes search for you in every direction

(Mere Bhaiya Mere Chanda Mere Anmol Ratan

….My brother, my moon, my priceless gem

Tere badle mein zamaane ki koi cheez na loon) -2

….In your place I can never take anything that this world has to offer

Tere sehre ki mehekti hui ladiyon ke liye

….For the garlands of your Sehra (a flowery head-dress worn by the groom)

Anginat phool ummeedo he chune hain maine

….I have plucked innumerable flowers of hope

Wo bhi din aaye ki un khwaabo ki taabeer mile

….May that day come when those dreams are realized

Teri khaatir jo haseen khwaab bune hain maine

….The beautiful dreams that I have dreamt for you

(Mere Bhaiya, Mere Chanda, Mere Anmol Ratan

….My brother, my moon, my priceless gem

Tere badle mein zamaane ki koi cheez na loon) -2

….In your place I can never take anything that this world has to offer

ईश्वर तेरी इस दुनिया में….

यूँ कब तक जीते जायें हम ?

और जलते हुए इन रस्तों पर​….

यूँ गीत कहाँ तक गायें हम ?

कठपुतलियों के इन शहरों में-

इन्सां को कौन पूछता है ?

इन आग लगाने वालों में-

सावन को कौन पूछता है ?

अब इन्द्रधनुष के रंगों में-

सिर्फ़ लाल रंग क्यूँ दिखता है ?

इन गीतों की इस सरगम में-

क्यूँ चीत्कार सा सुनता है ?

चुभते हुए इन काँटों में-

फूल देख कब तक मुस्कायें हम ?

ईश्वर तेरी इस दुनिया में….

यूँ कब तक जीते जायें हम ?

जहाँ रक्षक ही तो भक्षक है-

और चोर ही बन गया प्रहरी है,

जहाँ भेस बदल कर दानव ही

देखो देवदूत-सा दिखता है

और शैतान भी शर्मा जायेगा,

जब अपने मुँह से वो कहता है-

“जो होता है वो होने दो !

जो रोता है उसे रोने दो !”

तपते हुए इस घायल दिल पर​—–

चाँदनी का मरहम कब तक लगायें हम ?

ईश्वर तेरी इस दुनिया में….

यूँ कब तक जीते जायें हम ?

म​णि

Ishwar teri is duniya mein….

Yun kab tak jeete jaayein hum ?

Aur jalte hue in raston par….

Yun geet kahaan tak gaayein hum ?

Kathputliyon ke in sheharon mein-

Insaan ko kaun poochhta hai?

In aag lagaane waalon mein-

Saawan ko kaun poochhta hai?

Ab indradhanush ke rangon mein-

Sirf laal rang kyun dikhta hai?

In geeton ki is sargam mein-

Kyun cheetkaar sa sunta hai?

Chubhte hue in kaanton mein-

Phool dekh kab tak muskaayein hum?

Ishwar teri is duniya mein….

Yun kab tak jeete jaayein hum ?

Jahaan rakshak hi to bhakshak hai,

Aur chor hi ban gaya prehari hai,

Jahaan bhes badal kar daanav hi-

Dekho, Devdoot-sa dikhta hai

Aur shaitaan bhi sharmaa jaayega,

Jab apne munh se wo kehta hai-

“Jo hota hai wo hone do!

Jo rota hai use rone do!”

Tapte hue is ghaayal dil par,

Chaandni ka marham kab tak lagaayein hum?

Ishwar teri is duniya mein….

Yun kab tak jeete jaayein hum ?

The English translation of these lines are as follows-

O God! In this world of yours….

Till when do I live in this way?

On these burning paths…..

Till when do I sing songs this way?

In these cities of puppets-

Who cares about humans?

Amongst those who want to start a fire-

Who cares about the rains?

Now in the colours of rainbow-

Why do I see only the red colour?

In the notations of these songs-

Why do I hear heart-rending cries ?

Amongst these piercing thorns-

Till when do I see the flowers and smile?

O God! In this world of yours….

Till when do I live in this way?

Where the protector himself is the predator,

And thief himself has become the sentinel

Where demon has guised himself-

And looks like a Godsent angel

And the Devil himself will be embarrassed,

When he utters these foul-mouthed words-

“Whatever happens,Let it happen!

Whoever cries, Let him cry!”

On this fevered and wounded heart of mine…

Till when do I apply moonlight as the medication?

O God! In this world of yours….

Till when do I live in this way?

Mani

‘Auld Lang Syne’ is a poem written by Robert Burns in 1788.It is used traditionally to bid farewell to the going year and welcoming the New Year at the stroke of midnight. I have sung this today to wish everyone A Very Happy and Prosperous New Year 
The lyrics are….
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days o’ auld lang syne!
For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne,
We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet
For auld lang syne!
So here’s a hand, my trusty friend,
And gie’s a hand o’ thine,
We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet
For auld lang syne!
For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne,
We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet
For auld lang syne!

The translation in Modern English is…..
Should old acquaintances be forgotten,
And never brought to mind?
Should old acquaintances be forgotten,
And days of long ago!
For times gone by, my dear
For times gone by,
We will take a cup of kindness yet
For times gone by.
So here is a hand, my trusty friend,
And give us a hand of yours,
We will take a cup of kindness yet
For times gone by.

This is our first family performance at the Silver Jubilee Batch-Meet of SNMC 1988 batch in Agra…my younger son Vishwadi is on the drums, elder one Yashonidhi on the synthesizer and my husband Dr.Veerottam Tomer on guitar…me singing as always, all of us enjoyed a lot and jokingly referred to ourselves as ‘Tomer Band’ The song is our favourite from the movie ‘Parinda’ . Heartfelt thanks to Ravimohan Sir and Monu Sir for their guidance, it would not be possible without your help…

The lyrics of the song and their english translation are…

(Tumse milke aisa laga
Meeting you, it seemed like this

Tumse milke armaan hue poore dil ke) – 2
That meeting you, my heart’s desires were fulfilled

Ae meri jaane wafa
Oh love of my life

Teri meri meri teri ek jaan hai
Yours, mine, mine, yours, our lives are one

Saath tere rahenge sada, tumse na honge judaa
I will stay with you always, I will never leave you

Tumse milke aisa laga
Meeting you, it seemed like this

Tumse milke armaan hue poore dil ke
That meeting you, my heart’s desires were fulfilled

Mere sanam, teri kasam chhodenge ab na yeh haath
My sweetheart, I swear to you, I will not let go of your hand now

Yeh zindagi
This life
La la la

Guzregi ab
I will now spend
La la la

Hamdam tumhaare hi saath
With you alone, oh my soulmate

Apna yeh vaada raha, tumse na honge judaa
I have made this promise, I will never leave you

( Tumse milke aisa laga
Meeting you, it seemed like this

Tumse milke armaan hue poore dil ke )2
That meeting you, my heart’s desires were fulfilled

Maine kiya
I have
La la la
Hai raat din
Day and night
La la la

Bas tera hi intezaar
just longed only for you

Tere bina aata nahin ek pal mujhe ab qaraar
Without you I don’t get relief for one moment

Hamdam mera mil gaya, ab hum na honge judaa – 2
I have found my soulmate, now we will not separate

Tumse milke
Meeting you

Tumse milke aisa laga
Meeting you, it seemed like this

Tumse milke
Meeting you

Armaan hue poore dil ke
That my heart’s desires were fulfilled

Ae meri jaane wafa
Oh love of my life

Teri meri meri teri ek jaan hai
Yours, mine, mine, yours, our lives are one

Saath tere rahenge sada, ab hum na honge judaa
I will stay with you always, now we won’t separate

La la la la, la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVjCZfrpLqY