Jagjit Singh, the legendary ghazal maestro, has left an indelible mark on the world of Indian music with his soulful renditions and poetic brilliance. One of his most beloved compositions, “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya,” has captivated audiences for generations, resonating with the universal human experience of love, longing, and the profound impact of a single moment.
This evocative song, with its hauntingly beautiful lyrics and Jagjit Singh’s emotive vocals, has become a timeless classic, transcending the boundaries of language and culture. In this article, we will delve into the depths of this masterpiece, exploring its lyrical significance, the poetic elements that make it so compelling, and the enduring legacy it has left behind.
Jagjit Singh Tum Ko Dekha to Yeh Khayal Aaya Lyrics
Hmm Hmmm Hmm..Hmm Hmmm Hmm
Hmmm Hmmm Hmm..Aaaa
Hmm Hmmm Hmm..Hmm Hmmm Hmm
Hmmm Hmmm Hmm..Aaaa
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Zindagi Dhoop, Tum Ghana Saaya
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Zindagi Dhoop, Tum Ghana Saaya
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Aaj Phir Dil Mein, Ik Tammanna Ki
Aaj Phir Dil Mein, Ik Tammanna Ki
Aaj Phir Dil Ko Humne Samjhaaya
Aaj Phir Dil Humne Samjhaaya
Zindagi Dhoop, Tum Ghana Saaya
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Tum Chale Jaaoge To Sochenge
Tum Chale Jaaoge To Sochenge
Humne Kya Khoya, Humne Kya Paaya
Humne Kya Khoya, Humne Kya Paaya
Zindagi Dhoop, Tum Ghana Saaya
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Hum Jisse Gungunaa Nahi Sakte
Hum Jisse Gungunaa Nahi Sakte
Waqt Ne Aisa Geet Kyun Gaaya
Waqt Ne Aisa Geet Kyun Gaaya
Zindagi Dhoop, Tum Ghana Saaya
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Tumko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya
Hmm Hmmm Hmm..Hmm Hmmm
Overview of the Lyrics and Their Meaning
The lyrics of “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” are a poetic exploration of the profound emotions that arise when one encounters a beloved. The opening lines, “Tum ko dekha to yeh khayal aaya, ki jiya jale, jaan jale” (The moment I saw you, this thought came to me, that my heart and soul are burning), set the tone for the entire song, capturing the intense longing and the all-consuming nature of love.
The lyrics weave a tapestry of vivid imagery, using metaphors and symbolism to convey the depth of the narrator’s feelings. Lines like “Dil mera dhadakne laga, jab tumhe dekha” (My heart started racing when I saw you) and “Tum ho to lagta hai ki sab kuch hai, tum nahin to sab kuch kho gaya” (When you are here, it feels like everything is there, but when you’re not, everything is lost) eloquently express the transformative power of love and the profound sense of connection and loss that it can evoke.
Throughout the song, the narrator grapples with the duality of love, the ecstasy and the agony, the joy and the pain. The lyrics explore the universal human experience of being captivated by another’s presence, the way a single moment can alter one’s entire world, and the bittersweet realization that such profound emotions are often fleeting and fragile.
Analysis of the Poetic Elements in the Song
The lyrics of “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” are a masterful display of poetic craftsmanship, seamlessly blending rhythm, imagery, and emotional resonance.
- Rhyme and Rhythm: The song’s lyrical structure follows a consistent rhyme scheme, with the lines ending in similar-sounding words, creating a melodic flow that enhances the overall listening experience. The rhythm, too, is carefully crafted, with the syllables and pacing complementing the emotive nature of the lyrics.
- Imagery and Symbolism: The lyrics are rich in vivid imagery, painting a vivid picture of the narrator’s inner world. Metaphors like “jiya jale, jaan jale” (my heart and soul are burning) and “dil mera dhadakne laga” (my heart started racing) evoke powerful sensations, allowing the listener to connect with the emotional journey.
- Emotional Depth: The lyrics delve into the complex and multifaceted nature of love, exploring the duality of emotions – the joy and the pain, the ecstasy and the agony. This depth of emotional exploration is a hallmark of Jagjit Singh’s poetic prowess, as he gives voice to the universal human experience.
- Linguistic Nuance: The choice of words and the subtle interplay of meanings in the lyrics add layers of depth and complexity to the song. The use of Urdu and Hindi vocabulary, with their inherent cultural and literary associations, further enhances the artistic and intellectual appeal of the composition.
Through these poetic elements, Jagjit Singh’s “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” transcends the boundaries of mere lyrics, becoming a work of art that resonates with the heart and the mind.
Historical Context and Significance of the Song
“Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” was released in 1976 as part of Jagjit Singh’s album “Unforgettable.” This period marked a significant shift in the Indian music landscape, as the ghazal genre was gaining widespread popularity and recognition.
Jagjit Singh, along with his wife Chitra Singh, emerged as the leading proponents of the ghazal revival, bringing the art form to the forefront of mainstream Indian music. Their collaborations, including this iconic song, played a crucial role in introducing the ghazal to a wider audience and elevating it to new heights of artistic and commercial success.
The song’s significance extends beyond its musical merits, as it also reflects the cultural and social dynamics of the time. The lyrics, with their poetic exploration of love and loss, resonated with the emotional sensibilities of the Indian audience, who were grappling with the societal changes and personal challenges of the era.
In the decades since its release, “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” has become a timeless classic, transcending generational and cultural boundaries. It has become a staple in the repertoire of ghazal singers and has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its place in the annals of Indian music history.
Popular Renditions and Covers of “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya”
The enduring popularity of “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” has inspired numerous artists to cover and reinterpret the song over the years. While Jagjit Singh’s original rendition remains the definitive version, several other notable performances have emerged, each offering a unique perspective and interpretation.
- Lata Mangeshkar: The legendary Lata Mangeshkar, known for her ethereal vocals, has lent her voice to a soulful rendition of the song, infusing it with her signature style and emotional depth.
- Pankaj Udhas: Pankaj Udhas, another celebrated ghazal singer, has recorded a powerful version of the song, showcasing his mastery of the genre and his ability to capture the essence of the lyrics.
- Shreya Ghoshal: The versatile Shreya Ghoshal has also paid tribute to the classic with her rendition, adding her own distinctive touch to the timeless melody.
- Sonu Nigam: Sonu Nigam, renowned for his versatility, has delivered a stirring interpretation of “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya,” demonstrating his prowess as a vocalist.
These diverse renditions, each with its own unique charm, have helped to expand the reach and appreciation of Jagjit Singh’s masterpiece, ensuring that it continues to captivate and inspire audiences across generations.
Impact and Legacy of the Song
“Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” has left an indelible mark on the world of Indian music, transcending the boundaries of genre and becoming a cultural touchstone. The song’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim have solidified its status as a timeless classic, a testament to Jagjit Singh’s artistic brilliance and the universal appeal of his poetic vision.
The song’s impact can be seen in its widespread recognition and the countless lives it has touched. It has become a beloved staple in the repertoire of ghazal enthusiasts and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and live performances, introducing it to new audiences and ensuring its continued relevance.
Beyond its musical significance, “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” has also had a profound cultural impact. The song’s exploration of love, longing, and the human experience has resonated with listeners across generations, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. It has become a source of solace, inspiration, and emotional connection for countless individuals, serving as a testament to the power of art to capture the essence of the human condition.
The legacy of “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” extends beyond the realm of music, as it has inspired countless artists, poets, and writers to explore the themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of a single moment. The song’s enduring influence can be seen in the countless tributes, references, and homages that have emerged over the years, further cementing its place in the pantheon of Indian cultural heritage.
Exploring Other Notable Songs by Jagjit Singh
While “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” stands as Jagjit Singh’s most iconic and beloved composition, the maestro’s discography is filled with a rich tapestry of other noteworthy songs that showcase his artistic versatility and poetic prowess.
- “Hontho Se Chhu Lo Tum”: This soulful ghazal, with its intricate lyrics and Jagjit Singh’s emotive delivery, has become a cherished classic in the world of Indian music.
- “Jhuki Jhuki Si Nazar”: A poignant ballad that explores the nuances of love and heartbreak, this song is a testament to Jagjit Singh’s ability to capture the complexities of the human experience.
- “Koi Fariyaad”: This haunting composition, with its powerful lyrics and Jagjit Singh’s mesmerizing vocals, has become a staple in the repertoire of ghazal enthusiasts.
- “Saath Saath Chalte Hain”: A celebration of companionship and the enduring nature of love, this song showcases Jagjit Singh’s versatility and his ability to craft timeless melodies.
These and many other gems in Jagjit Singh’s discography continue to captivate and inspire listeners, solidifying his legacy as one of the most revered and influential artists in the history of Indian music.
Translating the Lyrics into English
Here is an English translation of the lyrics of “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya”:
Original Lyrics | English Translation |
---|---|
Tum ko dekha to yeh khayal aaya, Ki jiya jale, jaan jale |
The moment I saw you, this thought came to me, That my heart and soul are burning |
Dil mera dhadakne laga, Jab tumhe dekha |
My heart started racing, When I saw you |
Tum ho to lagta hai ki sab kuch hai, Tum nahin to sab kuch kho gaya |
When you are here, it feels like everything is there, But when you’re not, everything is lost |
Tum ko dekha to yeh khayal aaya, Ki jiya jale, jaan jale |
The moment I saw you, this thought came to me, That my heart and soul are burning |
The lyrics, with their poetic imagery and emotional depth, capture the universal human experience of love, longing, and the transformative power of a single moment. The English translation aims to preserve the essence and the evocative nature of the original Urdu and Hindi verses.
Conclusion
“Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” is a timeless masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of countless listeners. Jagjit Singh’s masterful craftsmanship, combined with the profound emotional resonance of the lyrics, has created a work of art that transcends the boundaries of genre and culture.
As I reflect on the impact of this song, I am struck by the way it has the power to transport me to a realm of pure emotion, where the boundaries between the self and the other dissolve, and the essence of human connection is laid bare. The song’s ability to evoke a profound sense of longing, joy, and melancholy simultaneously is a testament to the depth of Jagjit Singh’s artistic vision and the universal appeal of his poetic expression.
In a world that is often dominated by the pursuit of material wealth and fleeting pleasures, “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya” serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art to connect us to the deeper currents of the human experience. It is a testament to the transformative potential of music, to its ability to transcend the limitations of language and culture, and to its capacity to touch the very core of our being.