Shaam Se Aankh Mein Nami Si Hai

Jagjit Singh's 'Shaam Se Aankh Mein Nami Si Hai' is a poignant ghazal that delves deep into the themes of longing, loss, and the passage of time. The song, part of the album 'Marasim,' is a beautiful example of Singh's mastery in expressing complex emotions through simple yet evocative lyrics. The title itself, which translates to 'Since evening, there is a slight dampness in my eyes,' sets the tone for the melancholic journey the listener is about to embark on.

The lyrics speak of an evening filled with a sense of incompleteness and yearning for a loved one who is no longer present. The line 'aaj phir aapaki kami si hai' (today, once again, I feel your absence) captures the essence of this longing. The imagery of damp eyes suggests tears held back, a silent suffering that is deeply personal and intimate. The song's melancholic mood is further emphasized by the plea to be buried to find peace, indicating a profound sense of despair and a desire for release from the pain of separation.

Another significant aspect of the song is its reflection on the nature of time. The lyrics 'vaqt rahataa nahin kahin tik kar, isaki aadat bhi aadami si hai' (time does not stay still, it has a habit like humans) highlight the relentless and ever-changing nature of time, drawing a parallel to human behavior. This metaphor suggests that just as humans cannot remain constant, neither can time, adding to the sense of fleeting moments and lost opportunities. Despite the absence of a formal relationship, the song hints at an unspoken bond that necessitates acknowledgment, as seen in the line 'koyi rishtaa nahin rahaa phir bhi, ek tasalim laazami si hai' (there is no relationship left, yet a greeting is necessary).

Jagjit Singh's soulful rendition, combined with the profound lyrics, makes 'Shaam Se Aankh Mein Nami Si Hai' a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of separation and the inexorable passage of time. The song's ability to evoke deep emotions and its reflection on human nature and relationships make it a masterpiece in the realm of ghazals.