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Rabindranath Tagore’s “Jagorane Jay Bibhabori” is a powerful reflection of deep human feelings, focusing on themes of longing, sleeplessness, and the sadness of missing a loved one. Written in September-October 1918, this song expresses Tagore’s personal sorrow for his daughter, Madhurilata (known as Bela), who was seriously ill with tuberculosis. She sadly passed away in May 1918, and this piece, published later in 1933 in the book “Shapmochan,” acts as a musical tribute to her memory.

Musically, the song is set in the raga Behag and follows the Kaharba taal, classified under the ‘Prem’ (Love) category in Tagore’s anthology . Its lyrics evoke a night consumed by wakefulness, where the poet is tormented by the absence of sleep and the elusive presence of a loved one. The imagery of an unseen flute playing and shadows dancing mirrors the inner turmoil and yearning that pervade the composition.​

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In the hush of the sleepless night,
Shadows waltz with silent grace,
Eyes bereft of slumber’s balm,
Yearning for a vanished face.

Whose melody haunts the air?
A flute’s whisper, soft and low,
Echoes of a love once near,
Now a phantom’s gentle blow.

No words exchanged, yet whispers heard,
Secrets carried on the breeze,
Heartstrings pulled by unseen hands,
Tears that fall with silent pleas.

Her silhouette in moonlight’s glow,
Dances through the midnight haze,
A memory etched in time’s flow,
Lingering through endless days.

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“Jagorane Jay Bibhabori” transcends its personal origins to touch upon universal themes of love, loss, and the enduring nature of memory. Tagore’s ability to channel profound personal sorrow into a composition that resonates with the collective human experience underscores his genius. This song remains a poignant reminder of the delicate interplay between presence and absence, and the echoes of love that linger long after the beloved is gone.​

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NOTE

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I have always cherished the works of the great Rabindranath Tagore. In my humble efforts, I have been attempting to translate his creations so that those who do not understand Bengali may still catch a glimpse of the beauty and depth they hold.

I believe that a song becomes far more enriching when one understands the meaning it seeks to convey through its lyrics.

I am but a speck of dust before the towering genius of the indomitable Rabindranath Tagore, and I offer my translations with utmost reverence. I sincerely apologize in advance for any errors or shortcomings. Kindly point them out, so that I may correct them and strive toward a more faithful rendering.

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