Thumri - Lyrics

Lyrics

Many classical singers pay considerable attention to the lyrics, though they may be difficult to follow in the ornamented enunciation. This is especially where the focus is on love, and many lyrics deal with separation or viraha. Krishna's ras leela or love play with Radha and other gopis of Vrindavan appear frequently. As an example, here are the lyrics of a thumri composed by the medieval poet Lalan, celebrating Krishna's flute - how its tunes are driving Radha mad. Braj or Vrindavan is where Krishna is indulging in this love play; Radha is the "girl of Braj".

ab naa baajaao shyaam

ba.nsuriyaa naa baajaao shyaam

(e rii) vyaakul bhaayii brajabaalaa

ba.nsuriyaa naa baajaao shyaam

nit merii galii.n me.n aayo naa

aayo to chhup ke rahiyo

ba.nsii kii terii sunaaiyo naa

ba.nsii jo sunaaiyo to suniye

phir shyaam hame.n aapnaaiyo naa

aapnaaiyo to suniye laalan

phir chhoDo hame.n kahii.n jaaiyo naa

ba.nsuriyaa naa baajaao shyaam

enough! now stop

playing on your flute, dark lover

this braja girl's heart is aflutter,

i ask you, please stop playing

don't come to my lane all the time

and if you have to come,

just don't play your flute

I am warning you now:

if you have to play that flute

then you'll have to be mine

you won't be able to go elsewhere

so will you please stop playing now?

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