B Praak’s “Teri Mitti,” featured in the 2019 Bollywood film Kesari, is a soul-stirring tribute to the valor and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. The song has transcended its cinematic origins to become a patriotic anthem, evoking deep emotions and a sense of pride in the hearts of listeners. With its poignant lyrics, composed by Manoj Muntashir, and B Praak’s emotive rendition, “Teri Mitti” stands as a testament to the ultimate sacrifice made by soldiers for their motherland.
B Praak Teri Mitti (Kesari) Lyrics
Talvaron pe sar vaar diye
Angaaron mein jism jalaya hai
Tab jaake ke kahin humne sar pe
Yeh kesari rang sajaaya hai
Aye meri zameen afsoss nahi
Jo tere liye sau dard sahe
Mehfooz rahe teri aan sada
Chaahe jaan meri yeh rahe na rahe
Aye meri zameen mehboob meri
Meri nass nass mein tera ishq bahe
Pheeka na pade kabhi rang tera
Jismon se nikal ke khoon kahe
Teri mitti mein mill jawaan
Gul banke main khill jawaan
Itni si hai dil ki aarzoo
Teri nadiyon mein beh jawaan
Teri kheton mein lehrawaan
Itni si hai dil ki aarzoo
Wo o�
Sarson se bhare khalihaan mere
Jahaan jhoom ke bhagra paa na saka
Aabad rahe woh gaaon mera
Jahaan laut ke wapas jaa na saka
Ho watna ve, mere watna ve
Tera mera pyar nirala tha
Kurbaan hua teri asmat pe
Main kitna naseebon wala tha
Teri mitti mein mill jawaan
Gul banke main khill jawaan
Itni si hai dil ki aarzoo
Teri nadiyon mein beh jawaan
Teri kheton mein lehrawaan
Itni si hai dil ki aarzoo
O Heer meri tu hansti rahe
Teri aankh ghadi bhar nam na ho
Main marta tha jis mukhde pe
Kabhi uska ujaala kam na ho
O maai meri kya fiqr tujhe
Kyun aankh se dariya behta hai
Tu kehti thi tera chaand hoon main
Aur chaand hamesha rehta hai
Teri mitti mein mill jawaan
Gul banke main khill jawaan
Itni si hai dil ki aarzoo
Teri nadiyon mein beh jawaan
Teri kheton mein lehrawaan
Itni si hai dil ki aarzoo
The Context of Kesari and the Battle of Saragarhi
Before delving into the lyrics of “Teri Mitti,” it is essential to understand the context of Kesari. The film is based on the historical Battle of Saragarhi, which took place on September 12, 1897. This battle is considered one of the greatest last stands in military history. Twenty-one soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment of the British Indian Army, led by Havildar Ishar Singh, defended the Saragarhi post against an onslaught of over 10,000 Afghan tribesmen. Their valiant stand has become a symbol of bravery and sacrifice.
The Essence of “Teri Mitti”
“Teri Mitti” captures the essence of this sacrifice with its evocative lyrics and haunting melody. The song is a tribute to the soldiers who laid down their lives, celebrating their love and devotion to their country. The lyrics, penned by Manoj Muntashir, are rich with imagery and emotion, painting a vivid picture of a soldier’s bond with his motherland.
The Opening Verses
The song begins with a heartfelt plea:
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Teri mitti me mil jawaan,
Gul banke main khil jawaan,
Itni si hai dil ki arzu.
These lines translate to:
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Let me merge with your soil,
Let me bloom like a flower,
This is the only desire of my heart.
From the very first lines, the song establishes the deep connection between the soldier and his country. The imagery of merging with the soil and blooming like a flower symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice and the beauty of giving one’s life for the nation.
The Chorus: A Declaration of Love
The chorus of the song is both powerful and poignant:
Maa meri maa, meri maa,
Ye bata teri chaaon mein ab jeeyun kaise,
Tere bina lahoo yeh rahe bina.
Which translates to:
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Mother, my mother,
Tell me how I should live in your shade now,
How can this blood flow without you.
The use of “Maa” (mother) here is significant. It not only refers to the soldier’s biological mother but also metaphorically represents the motherland. The soldier’s dilemma of living without the nurturing presence of his mother underscores the deep emotional and spiritual bond he shares with his country.
The Soldier’s Reflection
As the song progresses, the soldier reflects on his life and his ultimate fate. One of the most touching verses goes:
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Kahaan chhupaake rakhun main,
Chehre se nazar teri,
Kaheen miloon jo mujhe,
Sabse pyaari subah teri.
Translated, it means:
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Where should I hide it,
Your sight from my face,
If I ever meet you,
Your face is the most beloved morning.
These lines are a beautiful representation of the soldier’s longing and love for his country. The imagery of hiding the sight of his beloved motherland and the metaphor of the motherland’s face being the most cherished morning highlight the depth of the soldier’s patriotism.
The Ultimate Sacrifice
The song reaches its emotional peak with the lines:
Mitti ki jo khushboo,
Tu kaise bhulaayega,
Tu chaahe kahin jaaye,
Tu laut ke aayega.
Which translate to:
go
The fragrance of the soil,
How will you forget it,
Wherever you go,
You will return.
These lines capture the eternal bond between a soldier and his country. The fragrance of the soil represents the indelible imprint of the motherland on the soldier’s soul. No matter where he goes, this bond will always bring him back, signifying his undying love and commitment.
The Melody and Performance
B Praak’s rendition of “Teri Mitti” is nothing short of mesmerizing. His deep, resonant voice imbues the song with a raw, emotional intensity that complements the lyrics perfectly. The musical arrangement, with its haunting melody and subtle instrumentation, enhances the song’s poignancy, making it an unforgettable listening experience.
The Impact and Legacy
“Teri Mitti” has had a profound impact since its release. It has become an anthem for patriotism, often played at events commemorating the sacrifices of soldiers. The song’s popularity transcends national boundaries, resonating with anyone who understands the concept of sacrifice and love for one’s country.
The song also sparked a movement of gratitude towards soldiers, with many people expressing their appreciation for the armed forces through various mediums. The emotional depth and universal appeal of “Teri Mitti” have cemented its place in the annals of patriotic music.
A Reflection on Sacrifice and Patriotism
In a broader sense, “Teri Mitti” serves as a reflection on the themes of sacrifice and patriotism. It reminds us of the countless men and women who have laid down their lives for their country, often without recognition or reward. The song calls upon us to honor their memory and to acknowledge the profound sense of duty and love that drives such sacrifices.
The Lyrics in a Contemporary Context
In today’s world, where the notions of patriotism and nationalism are often debated, “Teri Mitti” stands as a poignant reminder of what true love for one’s country entails. It goes beyond mere symbolism and rhetoric, delving into the deep, personal bond that a soldier shares with his homeland. The song challenges us to reflect on our own relationship with our country and the sacrifices we are willing to make for its well-being.
Conclusion
B Praak’s “Teri Mitti” is more than just a song; it is a powerful tribute to the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism. The evocative lyrics, combined with B Praak’s soulful rendition, create a piece of music that resonates deeply with listeners. It captures the essence of a soldier’s love for his country, celebrating the ultimate sacrifice in a way that is both poignant and inspiring.
As we listen to “Teri Mitti,” we are reminded of the bravery and dedication of those who defend our freedoms. The song serves as a timeless reminder of the cost of liberty and the enduring spirit of those who are willing to lay down their lives for their motherland. In a world that often forgets the value of sacrifice, “Teri Mitti” stands as a beacon of honor, courage, and unwavering patriotism.