Song Title: Aye Watan Aye Watan Humko Teri Kasam
Singers: Mohammad Rafi
Film: Shaheed (1965)
Lyricist: Prem Dhawan
Music Director: Prem Dhawan
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English Translation of Lyrics
Burning, they kept saying, the moths of freedom,
Only that life is truly lived, which dies for the nation.
Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you,
We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths.
What are flowers? At your feet, we Will offer our very heads.
Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you,
We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths, oh nation, oh nation.
Some from Punjab, some from Maharashtra
Some from UP, some from Bengal
Some from Punjab, some from Maharashtra
Some from UP, some from Bengal
We have brought to your plate of worship,
Flowers of every color, from every branch today.
Flowers of every color, from every branch today.
Whatever the name, the devotion is one,
We will ignite heart’s flame with flame.
Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you,
We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths, oh nation, oh nation.
If an angry gaze rises towards you,
We will not rest until that gaze is lowered.
If a foreign foot steps on your land,
We will erase every trace of that foot.
We will erase every trace of that foot.
Whatever wall now comes before us,
We will bring it down with our kicks.
Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you,
We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths, oh nation, oh nation.
We have endured much tyranny from strangers,
Now we will face every attack.
The heads of the martyrs will not bow now,
Even if it means facing a bloody sword.
Even if it means facing a bloody sword.
With shrouds tied on our heads, we, smiling,
Will embrace even death. Oh nation, oh nation.
Note: Hindi readers should refer to the original lyrics, not the translated version.
In-Depth Song Analysis
The Cinematic Context of Shaheed (1965)
“Aye Watan Aye Watan” is a foundational patriotic anthem from the critically acclaimed 1965 Bollywood film Shaheed. The film is a biographical drama based on the life of Bhagat Singh, a revolutionary freedom fighter. This song serves as a powerful call to arms and a solemn pledge of sacrifice, embodying the unwavering spirit of those who fought for India’s independence. It appears in the film to galvanize patriotic fervor and depict the deep-seated love for the motherland that fueled the freedom movement. Its placement underscores moments of sacrifice and resolve, making it emotionally resonant within the narrative.
Lyrical Quality and Patriotic Resonance by Prem Dhawan
Prem Dhawan, who not only composed but also penned the lyrics for “Aye Watan Aye Watan,” showcases his profound understanding of nationalist sentiment. His lyrics are direct, powerful, and deeply moving, designed to stir the conscience and inspire unwavering dedication to the nation. The song opens with the evocative imagery of “moths of freedom” (aazadi ke parwane) burning themselves for liberty, immediately setting a tone of ultimate sacrifice. The central oath, “humko teri qasam” (we swear by you), acts as a recurring anchor, emphasizing the solemnity of their commitment.
Dhawan skillfully uses metaphors of offering one’s head like flowers at the nation’s feet, symbolizing complete surrender and devotion. He highlights the unity in diversity by mentioning people from various states (Punjab, Maharashtra, UP, Bengal) bringing “flowers of every color,” signifying collective national identity despite regional differences. The lyrics then transition to a defiant stance against aggressors, pledging to eliminate any foreign threat. Finally, they embrace martyrdom with smiling faces, portraying death for the nation as the ultimate honor. The simplicity and directness of the language make the profound patriotic message accessible and impactful.
Musical Composition by Prem Dhawan: Raag, Taal, and Evocative Power
Prem Dhawan’s musical composition for “Aye Watan Aye Watan” stands as a monumental achievement in patriotic film music. Its melody is meticulously crafted to be both stirring and anthemic, successfully evoking a profound sense of solemn duty and fierce national pride.
The song’s melodic structure incorporates elements that lend it a devotional, contemplative, and at times poignant character. This choice perfectly complements the themes of sacrifice and deep love for the nation embedded in the lyrics, giving the piece a somber yet resolutely determined quality. The rhythmic foundation is steady and provides a strong, marching feel, effectively underscoring the unwavering resolve of freedom fighters.
The instrumentation thoughtfully employs traditional elements, including drums and brass instruments that suggest a military air, while strings contribute a solemn grandeur. The melody unfolds gradually, building in intensity particularly during the chorus. This dynamic progression creates a powerful sense of unity and determination. Dhawan’s compositional genius ensures that the music consistently amplifies the lyrical message, solidifying “Aye Watan Aye Watan” as a timeless anthem that continues to resonate across generations.
Mohammed Rafi’s Unforgettable Vocal Performance
Mohammad Rafi’s rendition of “Aye Watan Aye Watan” is nothing short of iconic. His voice, renowned for its unparalleled ability to convey deep emotion, brings an extraordinary blend of solemnity, passion, and unwavering resolve to this patriotic anthem. Rafi’s singing is imbued with a genuine sense of love and sacrifice for the nation. He delivers each line with a profound sincerity that makes the listener feel the weight of the commitment being expressed. His vocal control, particularly in the escalating emotional moments, creates a powerful and inspiring experience, solidifying “Aye Watan Aye Watan” as one of Mohammad Rafi’s most revered patriotic performances.
Let’s explore the intricate vocal expressions and emotional journey conveyed by Mohammad Rafi in each line:
Initial Verse
Jalte bhi gaye, kehte bhi gaye, aazadi ke parwane (Burning, they kept saying, the moths of freedom): Mohammad Rafi begins with a somber yet resolute tone, conveying the quiet determination and self-sacrifice of the freedom fighters. The voice carries the weight of their ultimate dedication.
Jeena toh usi ka jeena hai, jo marna vatan pe jaane (Only that life is truly lived, which dies for the nation): Sung with profound conviction and a sense of absolute truth. Rafi’s voice here is strong, almost didactic, emphasizing the core philosophy of selfless devotion.
Aye watan, aye watan, humko teri qasam (Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you): The iconic opening refrain is delivered with immense solemnity and a deep, resonant pledge. The repetition of “aye watan” is a heartfelt invocation, followed by a powerful, unwavering oath.
Teri raahon mein jaan tak luta jayenge (We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths): Rafi’s voice here conveys absolute commitment, a willingness to give everything. There’s a heroic, determined quality in his delivery.
Phool kya, cheez hai, tere qadmon pe hum (What are flowers? At your feet, we): Sung with humility and reverence, diminishing the value of ordinary offerings in comparison to the ultimate sacrifice.
Bhent apne saron ki chadha jayenge (Will offer our very heads): The voice becomes even more resolute, expressing the ultimate sacrifice with a steady, unflinching tone, emphasizing unwavering courage.
Aye watan, aye watan, humko teri qasam (Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you): The refrain returns, reaffirming the solemn pledge with reinforced emotional depth.
Teri raahon mein jaan tak luta jayenge, aye watan aye watan (We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths, oh nation, oh nation): The commitment is reiterated, now with an even greater sense of finality and devotion.
1st Verse
Koi Punjab se, koi Maharashtra se (Some from Punjab, some from Maharashtra): Rafi’s voice takes on a unifying quality, gently listing the diverse regions, highlighting the collective nature of their love for the nation.
Koi UP se hai, koi Bengal se (Some from UP, some from Bengal): The listing continues with the same unifying, inclusive tone, celebrating India’s diversity.
Teri pooja ki thali mein laaye hain hum (We have brought to your plate of worship): Sung with a sense of reverence and offering. The voice suggests a sacred act of collective devotion.
Phool har rang ke aaj har daal se (Flowers of every color, from every branch today): The voice is expansive and celebratory, symbolizing the diverse contributions and unity of the nation’s people.
Phool har rang ke aaj har daal se (Flowers of every color, from every branch today): The repetition emphasizes the beauty and completeness of this collective offering.
Naam kuch bhi sahi, par lagan ek hai (Whatever the name, the devotion is one): Rafi delivers this with a strong, unifying message, emphasizing the singular national spirit above all differences.
Jyot se jyot dil ki jaga jayenge (We will ignite heart’s flame with flame): Sung with inspiring energy, conveying the idea of spreading the fire of patriotism from one heart to another.
Aye watan, aye watan, humko teri qasam (Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you): The powerful oath returns, solidified by the verse’s message of unity.
Teri raahon mein jaan tak luta jayenge, ae watan ae watan (We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths, oh nation, oh nation): The commitment is deeply reiterated, carrying the full weight of collective sacrifice.
2nd Verse
Teri jaanib uthi, jo qahar ki nazar (If an angry gaze rises towards you): Rafi’s voice shifts to a tone of stern warning and fierce protectiveness. There’s a defiant edge in his delivery.
Us nazar ko, jhuka ke hi dam lenge hum (We will not rest until that gaze is lowered): Sung with absolute resolve and an iron will. The voice conveys an unyielding promise to protect the nation’s honor.
Teri dharti pe hai jo qadam ghair ka (If a foreign foot steps on your land): The voice becomes sharply assertive, addressing the threat of foreign intrusion with clear disdain.
Us qadam ka nishaan tak mita denge hum (We will erase every trace of that foot): Delivered with powerful determination, signifying a complete obliteration of any foreign presence or challenge.
Us qadam ka nishaan tak mita denge hum (We will erase every trace of that foot): The repetition reinforces the absolute nature of this pledge.
Jo bhi deewar aayegi ab saamne (Whatever wall now comes before us): Rafi’s voice gains an unstoppable momentum, indicating an unbreakable spirit against any obstacle.
Thokaron se use, hum gira jayenge (We will bring it down with our kicks): Sung with a forceful and defiant energy, conveying raw strength and an unwavering will to overcome.
Aye watan, aye watan, humko teri qasam (Oh nation, oh nation, we swear by you): The powerful pledge returns, now infused with the spirit of defiance and protective resolve.
Teri raahon mein jaan tak luta jayenge, ae watan ae watan (We will sacrifice our very lives on your paths, oh nation, oh nation): The ultimate promise is restated, culminating the message of absolute devotion and protection.
3rd Verse
Sah chuke hain sitam, hum bahut ghair ke (We have endured much tyranny from strangers): The voice reflects a deep-seated weariness from past oppression, yet also a new resolve.
Ab karenge har ek waar ka saamna (Now we will face every attack): Rafi delivers this with renewed strength and a bold, confrontational spirit, indicating an end to passive suffering.
Jhuk sakega na ab, sarfarosho ka sar (The heads of the martyrs will not bow now): Sung with immense pride and an unbending spirit, honoring the sacrifice of those who refuse to yield.
Chahe ho, khooni talwar ka saamna (Even if it means facing a bloody sword): The voice remains firm and fearless, accepting even the gravest threat with courage.
Chahe ho, khooni talwar ka saamna (Even if it means facing a bloody sword): The repetition emphasizes this fearless acceptance of martyrdom.
Sar pe baandhe kafan, hum toh hanste hue (With shrouds tied on our heads, we, smiling): Rafi’s voice here conveys an almost sublime acceptance of death, a chilling yet inspiring image of embracing fate joyfully.
Maut ko bhi gale se laga jayenge (Will embrace even death): The final line is delivered with profound courage and a sense of glorious fulfillment, portraying death for the nation as a loving embrace.
Aye watan aye watan (Oh nation, oh nation): The song concludes with the solemn, heartfelt invocation, leaving a lasting impression of profound patriotism.
Overall Summary: An Enduring Patriotic Classic
“Aye Watan Aye Watan” stands as a towering example of patriotic music in Indian cinema. Prem Dhawan’s lyrics are a potent blend of solemn oath, defiant resolve, and an ultimate commitment to sacrifice, vividly portraying the spirit of freedom fighters. His musical composition, drawing on the emotional depth of Raag Bhairavi and the steadfast rhythm of Deepchandi Taal, creates an anthemic soundscape that is both grand and deeply moving.
Mohammed Rafi’s vocal performance is simply unparalleled; he imbues every word with profound sincerity, unwavering courage, and an almost spiritual love for the nation. His ability to convey such a wide spectrum of emotions—from solemn pledge to fierce defiance and joyful acceptance of martyrdom—makes this song an enduring symbol of Indian patriotism.
“Aye Watan Aye Watan” is not just a song; it’s a timeless declaration of national pride and an everlasting tribute to those who laid down their lives for their country.
~ Balwant S. Wadhwani