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The Meaning of Iktara: The One-Stringed Soul
The word ‘Iktara’ literally translates to ‘One-stringed.’ It is a traditional string instrument used in folk music across India and Pakistan, often associated with wandering minstrels and Sufi saints. In the song, the ‘Iktara’ represents the protagonist’s heart—singular, soulful, and resonating with a deep, solitary longing for a loved one.
Iktara Lyrics and English Translation
Iktara from Wake Up Sid is one of the truly beautifully written songs that I have personally heard a lot of praises for. The mesmerizing song written by Javed Akhtar, sung by Kavitha Seth & Amitabh Bhattacharya and composed by Amit Trivedi topped the charts after its release(2 years ago) and even today is an integral part of playlists at radio stations.
This is one of the songs that truly cheer me up while I listen to it. Especially the lines (in bold), I love the way they flow into one another and convey their message so romantically. One of Javed Akhtar’s finest writings.
English Translation
Here is the translation of the beautiful song:
| Hindi Lyrics / Romanized | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Orey manva tu to bavra hai Tu hi jaane tu kya sochta hai Tu hi jaane tu kya sochta hai bavre kyun dikhaye sapne tu sote jaagte | Oh my mind, you are like a nomad Only you know what you are thinking Only you know what you are thinking, oh wanderer Why are showing me dreams while I sleep and am awake |
| Jo barse sapne boond boond Nainon ko moond moond; Kaise main chaloon Dekh na sakoon, anjaane raastein; | When the dreams rain down in drops Flooding my eyes How could I walk I can’t see the unknown paths |
| Gunja sa hai koi iktara iktara, gunjasa hai koi iktara Gunjasa hai koi iktara iktara, gunjasa hai koi iktara Dheeme bole koi iktara iktara, dheeme bole koi iktara Gunjasa hai koi iktara iktara, gunjasa hai koi iktara | (I hear) an one string instrument playing (I hear) an one string instrument playing An one string instrument is saying it slowly (I hear) an one string instrument playing |
| Sun rahi hoon sudh budh khoke koi main kahani Poori kahani hai kya kise hai pata Main to kisiki hoke yeh bhi na jaani Ruth hai ye do pal ki ya rehgi sada | Losing my self, I am listening to that story What is whole story, who knows Despite becoming someone’s I didn’t realize Is it a season for this moment or will it stay forever |
Video:
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Iktara:
Q: What instrument is an Iktara?
A: An Iktara is a simple folk instrument with a single string. It is often played by Sufi singers and Baul musicians to accompany their spiritual chants.
Q: What is the main theme of the song Iktara?
A: The song captures a moment of quiet realization and longing. It speaks about the “madness” of the heart (Manwa Baawra) and the internal echo of feelings that one can’t quite explain.
Q: Who sang the female version of Iktara?
A: The soulful female version was sung by Kavita Seth, whose earthy, Sufi-style vocals made the song an instant classic.
🎧 Best Way to Experience This Music
To hear the deep bass and soulful vocals of these translations/songs, I recommend these high-fidelity headphones:
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