(Bang-e-Dra-169) Teh-e-Daam Bhi Ghazal Aashna Rahe Tairan-e-Chaman To Kya

Teh-e-Daam Bhi Ghazal Ashna Rahe Taaeeran-e-Chaman To Kya
Jo Faghan Dilon Mein Tarap Rahi Thi, Nawaye Ziar-e-Labi Rahi

No wonder if the garden birds remained fond of poetry even under the net
The lament fluttering in hearts as silent song remained

Tera Jalwa Kuch Bhi Tasalli Dil-e-Na-Saboor Na Kar Saka
Wohi Garya-e-Sehri Raha, Wohi Aah-e-Neem Shabi Rahi

Thy Effulgence could not satisfy the restless heart at all
The same dawn’s lament remained, the same midnight sighs remained

Na Khuda Raha Na Sanam Rahe, Na Raqeeb-e-Dair-o-Haram Rahe
Na Rahi Kahin Asadullah, Na Kahin Abu Lahbi Rahi

Neither God, nor idols nor the rivals of temple and the Harem remained
Neither ‘Ali’s prowess nor Abu Lahab’s infidelity remained

Mera Saaz Agarcha Sitam Raseeda-e-Zakhama Haye Ajam Raha
Woh Shaheed-e-Zauq Wafa Hun Mein Ke Nawa Meri Arabi Rahi

Though my orchestra remained oppressed by `Ajam’s plectrum
I am that martyr in fidelity’s cause whose song ever Arabic remained!