Today is the 100th Birthday Anniversary of Faiz Ahmed Faiz (February 13, 1911 – November 20, 1984), one of the greatest poets of Urdu language. And on the eve of Valentine’s Day, for me there could not be a better and befitting way of remembering him on his birthday centenary than by his following famous poem.
Kuch Ishq Kiya, Kuch Kaam Kiya
Woh Laug Buhut Khush Kismet Thiey
Jau Ishq Kau Kaam Samjhtiey Thiey
Ya Kaam Siey Aashqee Kartiey ThieyHum Jeetiey Ji Masroof Rahiey
Kuch Ishq Kiya, Kuch Kaam Kiya
Kaam Ishq Kiey Aariey Aata RahaAur Ishq Siey Kaam Ulajhta Raha
Phir Aakhir Tang Aakar Hum Niey
Daunoo Kau Adhura Chor Diya
Translation: A Bit of Love, A Bit of Work
Those were indeed the fortunate lot
Who undertook love as work
Or were in love with their vocationI kept myself busy all my life
With little bit of love, and little bit of work
Work came in the way of loveAnd love often impeded work
Then, finally, in disgust, giving it all up
I forsook them both (love and work), unfinished
I tried though!
Happy 100th Birthday, Faiz Ahmed Faiz!