Being a great writer doesn’t just require a great vocabulary and command over the language, it also requires great thoughts and more importantly, life experience. Kaifi Azmi was one such poet lyricist who laid bare the many complexities of human existence through his verse. Even today, while listening to his songs, we find something resonating deep within our hearts (dukhti nabz pe haath rakhna, if you use Hindi). Rightfully, he was awarded with Padma Shree, which is the fourth highest civilian honour in India. He also won the Sahitya Akademi Award (Urdu) for his collection of poems Awaara Sajde. 

And since it’s Friday, this jukebox is perfect for listening (appreciating) today evening after some wine. 

Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho

Favourite lines: Aankhon mein nami, Hansi labo par; Kya haal hai, kya dikha rahe ho. 

Chalte Chalte

Favourite lines:  Shab-e-intezaar aakhir, kab hogi mukhtasar bhi; yeh chiraag bujh rahe hai, mere saath jalte jalte. 

Yeh Jhuki Jhuki Si Nazar

Favourite lines: Tuu apne dil ki jawaan dhadkanon ko gin ke bataa,  meri tarah teraa dil bekaraar hai ki naheen; dabaa dabaa saa sahee, dil mein pyaar hai ki naheen.

Yeh Duniya Yeh Mehfil

Favourite lines: Sehra mein aake bhi, mujhko thikana na mila; gham ko bhulane ka, koi bahana na mila; dil tarse jismein pyar ko, Kya samjhun us sansar ko.

Kar Chale Hum Fida

Favourite lines: Saans thamti gayi, nabz jamti gayi; phir bhi badhte kadam ko na rukne diya; kat gaye sar hamaare toh kuch nahi; sar himalaya ka humne na jhukne diya.