Chaudhavi Shab (feat. A M Turaz & Sanjay Leela Bhansali)

“Chaudhavi Shab” by Shreya Ghoshal, featuring A M Turaz and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into the depths of love and the pain that often accompanies it. The title itself, which translates to 'The Fourteenth Night,' refers to the full moon night, symbolizing a time of completeness and beauty. However, the lyrics juxtapose this imagery with themes of suffering and unfulfilled love, creating a poignant contrast.

The recurring line, 'Chaudhavi Shab ko kahan, Chand koi dhalta hai,' which means 'On the fourteenth night, where does the moon set?' suggests a sense of timelessness and an eternal state of longing. The moon, often a symbol of love and romance, is depicted as never setting, indicating an unending cycle of desire and heartache. This is further emphasized by the metaphor of burning in water, 'Haye paani mein, kaun jalta hai,' which conveys the impossibility and paradox of the situation, highlighting the intensity of the emotional turmoil.

The song also explores the physical and emotional pain of love. Lines like 'Dard aisa ki hansi aati hai, saans seene mein phansi jaati hai' describe a pain so profound that it brings laughter, and breaths that get stuck in the chest, illustrating the suffocating nature of unrequited love. The imagery of walking on a path filled with thorns, 'Jismein kaante biche hoon manzil tak,' symbolizes the hardships and sacrifices made in the pursuit of love. The song's melancholic tone and evocative lyrics capture the essence of love's bittersweet nature, making it a deeply moving piece.

Shreya Ghoshal's soulful rendition, combined with the poetic lyrics by A M Turaz and the musical direction of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, creates an immersive experience that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love. The song's rich metaphors and emotional depth make it a timeless piece that speaks to the universal human experience of love and loss.