Song: Aaj Ki Raat Mere Dil Ki Salami Le Le
Singer: Mohammad Rafi | Ram Aur Shyam (1967)
Lyricist: Shakeel Badayuni | Music: Naushad Ali
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This night, like a bride, has been adorned with lamps
I will create even more light from the scars of my heart
Tonight, take the salute of my heart
Tomorrow, the mad lover will leave your gathering
The flame will remain, but the moth will fly away
Tonight, take the salute of my heart.
May your gathering and your splendor be blessed
Even today, I do not deny your love
May your tavern remain safe, oh beloved of loyalty
Smile and look at me just once
Then, the intoxicated lover of your love will leave
Tomorrow, the mad lover will leave your gathering
The flame will remain, but the moth will fly away
Tonight, take the salute of my heart.
I wanted to reveal my true feelings
But you did not understand the secret of my love
My restlessness and my condition have reached this point
Your eyes mistook my love for hatred
Now, a stranger will walk away from your path
Tomorrow, the mad lover will leave your gathering
The flame will remain, but the moth will fly away
Tonight, take the salute of my heart.
If you do not accompany me on the path of love, oh beloved
While walking, I will turn onto some other path
The galaxies, moon, and stars will kiss your feet
I am but a speck of dust on your path; I will fly away
With me, my story will also leave
Tomorrow, the mad lover will leave your gathering
The flame will remain, but the moth will fly away
Tonight, take the salute of my heart.
Note: Hindi readers should refer to the original lyrics, not the translated version.
The song “Aaj Ki Raat Mere Dil Ki Salaami Le Le” is a poignant expression of unrequited love and farewell. The singer uses vivid imagery and metaphors, such as the moth and flame, to convey their emotions. They express their deep love for the beloved but also their pain at being misunderstood and unreciprocated. The recurring refrain emphasizes the singer’s heartfelt tribute to the beloved, even as they prepare to leave. The song beautifully captures the bittersweet emotions of love, longing, and the inevitability of parting.
For deeper insight into the song, review the detailed analysis of the lyrics, composition and singing.
~ Balwant S. Wadhwani