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“Zindagi Kaisi Hai Paheli,” a song from the 1971 film “Anand,” reflects on life’s mysteries through the story of Rajesh Khanna’s terminally ill yet joyful character, who inspires others to appreciate life’s transient moments. Composed by Salil Chowdhury and sung by Manna Dey, the song encapsulates the bittersweet nature of existence, blending joy and sorrow.

The lyrics explore profound themes of happiness and despair, as well as the inevitability of loss. In the movie, the song mirrors Anand’s character, portrayed by Rajesh Khanna, who, despite his fate, celebrates life with enthusiasm. Together, the song and film highlight the transient nature of joy and loss, offering an emotional experience that resonates across cultures. Through its evocative melodies and meaningful lyrics, the song conveys a universal message about life’s beauty and fragility, urging us to embrace each moment.

Now, let’s embark on a poetic journey inspired by the essence of this iconic song.

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Life’s riddle twists like wind through leaves,
Giving, then stealing, what it weaves.
Dreams rise with dawn, yet fade too fast,
Like footprints washed where waves have passed.

We chase the sun through fleeting skies,
But joy, like shadows, slips and dies.
Moments we treasure, once held tight,
Vanish like stars that yield to night.

O life! Why tease with fleeting bliss;
A kiss, a laugh, a tender wish?
For just as we begin to feel,
You turn the wheel, and joy must kneel.

Fairgrounds crumble, seasons wane,
Each love we cradle ends in pain.
Those dearest walk away too soon,
Leaving us empty beneath the moon.

Yet sorrow whispers truths unknown,
That beauty lies in being alone.
For every joy must bear its cost,
And what we cherish is never lost.

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This poem reflects on life as a blend of joy and sorrow, emphasizing that permanence is an illusion and that everything fades, yet the act of living holds value. It highlights the beauty in life’s transience and the importance of embracing each moment, drawing on Anand’s teachings about the significance of experiencing dreams, even as they come undone. The poem underscores the necessity of accepting both joy and sorrow as key aspects of the human experience.

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