“Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai,” a timeless melody sung by Mohammed Rafi in Naina (1973), beautifully encapsulates the essence of love and admiration. Explore the depth and emotion of this classic song.

Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai is one of those quintessential romantic melodies that epitomizes the genius of Mohammed Rafi. This song, from the 1973 film Naina, is a beautiful blend of soulful lyrics by Hasrat Jaipuri and the magical composition of Shankar Jaikishan.

As a die-hard fan of Mohammed Rafi, this song holds a special place in my heart, not only because of its lyrical beauty but also due to the sheer emotion that Rafi Saab pours into every note.

The song’s essence lies in its simplicity yet profoundness. Shashi Kapoor, who plays the role of Ravi, is seen appreciating the stunning beauty of Rajshree’s eyes. The melody, set against the picturesque backdrop of Venice, Italy, transports you into a world of serene love and admiration.

The romantic vibe of the song, coupled with Rafi Saab’s voice, makes it a timeless classic. Despite being nominated for the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer, it is a bittersweet memory that Rafi Saab did not win. Yet, this song remains a testament to his unparalleled ability to infuse life into lyrics.

Behind the Scenes of a Classic

The story behind the making of Naina is as captivating as the song itself. Originally planned as an action thriller inspired by James Bond, the film’s narrative took a dramatic turn when actress Rajshree left for America after getting married.

This sudden departure left the producer in a dilemma, leading to a significant shift in the storyline. The script was reworked, turning the movie into a romantic drama inspired by “Rebecca.” The song “Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai” was retained, showcasing the chemistry between Shashi Kapoor and Rajshree, even though she no longer played the lead role. Moushumi Chatterjee was brought in to play the second wife, further adding layers of intrigue to the story.

One of the interesting facts about this movie is Shashi Kapoor’s double hairstyle. Because of the change in the timeline of production, scenes shot earlier had to be seamlessly integrated with new ones, leading to two different looks for Shashi Kapoor. Also, the amusing anecdote of Moushumi Chatterjee referring to Shashi Kapoor as “uncle” in real life, and then being told to call him Shashiji or Shashi Baba during the shoot, adds a touch of lightheartedness to the film’s history.

Emotions, Depth, and Meaning in the Lyrics Humko Toh Jaan Se

The lyrics of “Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai” are a poetic celebration of love and admiration, beautifully encapsulating the emotions of a lover mesmerized by the beauty of his beloved’s eyes. Hasrat Jaipuri, with his mastery over words, crafted each line to reflect the depth of this admiration.

Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai Tumhari Aankhen,
Haaye Kaajal Bhari, Madahosh Yeh Pyaari Aankhen..

हमको तो जान से प्यारी है तुम्हारी आँखें,
हाय काजल भरी, मदहोश ये प्यारी आँखें..

In this opening stanza, the lyricist Hasrat Jaipuri expresses the sheer adoration for Rajshree’s eyes. The eyes, adorned with kohl, are described as intoxicating, and the lover’s world revolves around these captivating eyes. The intensity of this admiration is beautifully portrayed in Rafi Saab’s soulful rendition.

Mast Aankhen Hein Ke Gaate Huve Maikhane Hein,
Mast Aankhen Hein Ke Chhalke Huve Paimaane Hein,
Hamne Dekhi Nahin, Aisi Toh Kanwari Aankhen,
Haaye Kaajal Bhari, Madahosh Yeh Pyaari Aankhen..

मस्त आँखें हैं के गाते हुए मैखाने हैं,
मस्त आँखें हैं के छलके हुए पैमाने हैं,
हमने देखी नहीं, ऐसी तो कंवारी आँखें,
हाय काजल भरी, मदहोश ये प्यारी आँखें..

Here, Hasrat Sahab compares the beloved’s eyes to a lively tavern and overflowing goblets, symbolizing the joy and inebriation they bring. The lover marvels at the purity and innocence of these eyes, emphasizing that he has never seen such untouched beauty.

Nargisi Phool Hein, Has Has Ke Khili Jaati Hein,
Neend Ke Bojh Se Sharmaake Jhuki Jaati Hein,
Aur Qatil Hai Sanam, Neend Se Bhaari Ankhen,
Haaye Kaajal Bhari, Madahosh Yeh Pyaari Aankhen..

नरगिसी फूल हैं, हस हस के खिली जाती हैं,
नींद के बोझ से शरमा के झुकी जाती हैं,
और कातिल है सनम, नींद से भारी आँखें,
हाय काजल भरी, मदहोश ये प्यारी आँखें..

In this verse, Rajshree’s eyes are likened to Nargis flowers that bloom with laughter but shy away under the weight of sleep. The eyes, heavy with sleep, are described as Qatil or deadly, suggesting their power to slay the lover with their beauty.

Roshani Chaand Mein Suraj Mein Hai Jab Tak Kaayam,
Jyot Roshan Rahe Aankhon Mein Tumhari Hardam,
Yeh Duva Hai Ke, Salaamat Rahe Pyaari Ankhen,
Haaye Kaajal Bhari, Madahosh Yeh Pyaari Aankhen..

रोशनी चाँद में सूरज में है जब तक कायम,
ज्योत रौशन रहे आँखों में तुम्हारी हरदम,
ये दुआ है के, सलामत रहे प्यारी आँखें,
हाय काजल भरी, मदहोश ये प्यारी आँखें..

The final stanza is a prayer, wishing that the brightness of the beloved’s eyes remains eternal, just like the sun and moon. The lover hopes that the light in these beautiful eyes stays forever, illuminating his life.

The Lyricist of Humko Toh Jaan Se: Hasrat Jaipuri

Hasrat Jaipuri, one of the most celebrated lyricists of Hindi cinema, was known for his ability to craft lyrics that resonated with deep emotions and simplicity. Apart from “Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai,” Hasrat Jaipuri has written many memorable songs for Mohammed Rafi, including classics like “Tumse Achha Kaun Hai” from Janwar (1965), “Teri Zulphon Se” from Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai (1961) and “Mujhko Apne Gale Lagalo” from Hamrahi (1963). His collaboration with Shankar Jaikishan and Rafi Saab produced some of the most iconic songs in Bollywood history.

The Musicians: Shankar Jaikishan

Shankar Jaikishan, the legendary composer duo, were instrumental in shaping the sound of Bollywood music in the golden era. Their compositions, often brought to life by Rafi Saab, were known for their melodic richness and innovative orchestration. Songs like “Mere Gunaah Maaf Kar” from Sachhai (1969), “Ehesaan Mere Dil Pe” from Gaban (1966) and “Dil Ek Mandir Hai” from Dil Ek Mandir (1963) are just a few examples of their timeless collaborations with Rafi Saab.

The Actors: Shashi Kapoor and Rajshree

Shashi Kapoor and Rajshree made for a charming on-screen pair, their chemistry evident in songs like “Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai“. Shashi Kapoor’s suave persona and Rajshree’s ethereal beauty brought the lyrics and music to life. While they didn’t act in many films together, their performance in Naina remains memorable. Shashi Kapoor, with his versatile acting skills, has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, while Rajshree’s graceful presence continues to be remembered fondly.

Also Read: Rafi harmonic for charming Shashi Kapoor

About the Movie: Naina

Naina (1973), directed by Kanak Mishra, had an interesting journey from its inception to release. Originally conceptualized as an action thriller, the film’s direction took a romantic turn due to unforeseen circumstances. Despite the challenges, the film is remembered for its beautiful songs, particularly “Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai.” The Venice-shot sequences add a touch of international flair, making the film visually appealing.

“Humko Toh Jaan Se Pyari Hai” is not just a song; it’s a heartfelt expression of love, admiration, and beauty, immortalized by Mohammed Rafi’s voice. The combination of Hasrat Jaipuri’s lyrics, Shankar Jaikishan’s music, and the visual appeal of Shashi Kapoor and Rajshree make this song a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans across generations.

Film: Naina
Year: 1973
Singer: Mohammed Rafi
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Music: Shankar Jaikishan
Actors: Shashi Kapoor, Rajshree
Director: Kanak Mishra

This blog was published on Friday, August 30th, 2024 at 4:32 pm and Last modified on Friday, August 30th, 2024 at 4:32 pm and is filed under Audio Songs. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.