Urdu Poetry of Qateel Shifai
Ghazal: Halat Ke Qadmon Pe Qalandar Nahin Girta
Recitation: Raheel Farooq
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Muhammad Aurangzeb, better known by his pen name Qateel Shifai (1919-2001), was a renowned Pakistani Urdu poet and lyricist. Born in Haripur District, which is now part of Pakistan, Qateel's early life was marked by hardship, especially after the death of his father in 1935. Despite these challenges, he emerged as one of the most influential literary figures in Urdu poetry and film lyrics.
Qateel Shifai's journey into the world of poetry began in 1938 when he adopted his pen name. "Qateel" was his takhallus (nom de plume) and "Shifai" was in honor of his mentor Hakeem Mohammed Yahya Shifa Khanpuri. This mentorship was pivotal, as Qateel's family had no tradition of poetry. Initially, Qateel's attempts to support his family through various business ventures were unsuccessful, leading him to move to Rawalpindi and later Lahore, where he joined the film industry in 1947 as a lyricist. His big break came when he wrote the lyrics for the film Teri Yaad (1948).
Ghazal: halat ke qadmon pe qalandar nahin girta
One of Qateel Shifai's most famous ghazals, "halat ke qadmon pe qalandar nahin girta" (A Qalandar Does Not Fall at the Feet of Circumstances), is a profound reflection of his spiritual and philosophical beliefs. Here is the ghazal along with its translation:
halat ke qadmon pe qalandar nahin girta
TuuTe bhi jo tara to zamin par nahin girta
A Qalandar does not fall at the feet of circumstances
Even if a star breaks, it does not fall to the ground.
girte hain samundar mein bade shauq se dariya
lekin kisi dariya mein samundar nahin girta
Rivers fall into the sea with great enthusiasm
But the sea never falls into a river.
samjho wahan phaldar shajar koi nahin hai
wo sahn ki jis mein koi patthar nahin girta
Understand that there are no fruit-bearing trees there
Where no stone falls into the courtyard.
itna to hua faida barish ki kami ka
is shahr mein ab koi phisal kar nahin girta
At least there is one benefit of the lack of rain
In this city, no one slips and falls anymore.
in'aam ke lalach mein likhe mad'h kisi ki
itna to kabhi koi sukhan-var nahin girta
To write praise out of greed for reward
No true poet ever stoops to that.
hairan hai kai roz se thahra hua pani
talab mein ab kyun koi kankar nahin girta
The stagnant water is puzzled for days
Why no pebble falls into the pond anymore.
us banda-e-khuddar pe nabiyon ka hai saaya
jo bhook mein bhi luqma-e-tar par nahin girta
The shadow of the prophets is upon that self-respecting man
Who, even in hunger, does not fall for a morsel of bread.
karna hai jo sar ma'rka-e-zist to sun le
be-bazu-e-haidar dar-e-khaibar nahin girta
If you wish to conquer the battle of life, listen
Without the arm of Haider (Ali), the gate of Khyber does not fall.
qaim hai 'qatil' ab ye mere sar ke sutoon par
bhonchal bhi aaye to mera ghar nahin girta
Now my house stands on the pillars of my head, O Qateel
Even if an earthquake comes, my house will not fall.
Analysis of the Ghazal
This ghazal encapsulates the essence of Sufi philosophy and the indomitable spirit of a Qalandar, a title used in Sufism for those who are particularly spiritual. Additionally, it carries revolutionary elements, showcasing themes of resistance (muzahmat) and progressiveness (inqilab). Qateel Shifai uses powerful imagery and metaphors to convey resilience, dignity, and spiritual strength. Each couplet (sher) of the ghazal stands alone as a profound statement of truth, yet together they form a cohesive narrative of steadfastness in the face of adversity.
Themes and Style
Qateel Shifai's poetry, particularly this ghazal, is marked by its lyrical beauty and profound depth. He often employed themes of Sufism, love, and existential reflection. His style is both accessible and deeply philosophical, making his work resonate with a wide audience. The use of simple yet powerful language ensures that his messages are clear and impactful.
Qateel Shifai's legacy as a poet and lyricist is firmly established in the annals of Urdu literature. His ability to convey profound truths through simple yet evocative language has endeared him to generations of readers and listeners. Through his poetry, Qateel Shifai has left an indelible mark on the cultural and literary landscape, and his works continue to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world. His ghazal "halat ke qadmon pe qalandar nahin girta" remains a testament to his enduring genius and the timeless power of his words.
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