Chori Chori

I can still hear the instruments ringing in my ears. The sitar, the xylophones, the tablas, guitar and the odd but fitting presence of the drum set brings an indulgent smile to my face. The very existence and essence of this certain song defines my life at a certain point.

In this world of fast paced music filled with sticky beats and guttural voices, Coke Studio brought a song into my life that completely unhinged my perceptions of modern music. This piece of music represents the transition between tradition and the new age. The very composition of it suggests the integration of old with new, and the resulting mixture resonates with all who listen. Understanding the importance of our culture and native history, I saw this song for the treasure it is. I saw it uniting the people who sat in front of their televisions swaying to the beats of this melody. The singer Meesha Shafi manges to entrance those who listen – regardless of age.

My own attachment to this song stems from the hour long drive my mother and I took to Islamabad. This ballad came on the radio and she explained the meaning of the lyrics to me. The song talks about how this woman slowly falls in love glance by glance; and instead of the usual movie induced frenzy in declarations of undying love, she waits.

Without knowing about it, I locked my eyes with you (and fell in love)

Very quietly, Very discretely…

In that moment, I felt a kinship to the unknown woman. I had been through a similar experience. The first time I seriously felt something for someone started with just a look. It wasn’t love at first sight, (or lust as I refer to it) it was naught but a fleeting look. It was something that grew with every peek, and it proliferated in silence.

But the simpleton I am..

I sit here, waiting for you to come to me

Assuming the unnamed woman met the same fate, we were both left hanging for something that didn’t happen. We waded through our maelstrom of emotions and came out resolute. Both of us acknowledge that our actions were silly, but it was something we had to do. We lingered for that person, whose attentions empowered us so – made us confident in our passive pursuits. Even though we were disappointed, we drew strength from the let down. Now I look back on my past and think fondly of my adventures and determination – without regrets coloring my memories since I wasn't expectant of a happy ending in the first place. I was content with just watching and waiting. 

I will keep this love hidden from the rest of the world

Nevertheless, the love I have for you is safe..