The path to the well is very difficult: Kalam Amir Khusrow sung by Ustad Jafar Hussain Khan
The Path to the Well is very difficult: Kalam Amir Khusrow sung by Ustad Jafar Hussain Khan
Poem in archaic Hindi by Amir Khosrow O’ Khosrow
The river of love flows differently
He who gets out, is drowned; he who drowns, is saved
The path to the well is very difficult
How shall I fill up the jar from the well?
When I went to take the water, in the haste, my jar crashed.
O’ Nizamuddin Awliya! I have succombed to you
Save the honour of my bridal veil
I am dumb, deaf and mad
My clothes are dirtier than those of my friends
I am less in everything. You are perfect, 0 King!
Hold my hand, and keep my honour till thend.
O dear, keep the honour of these bangles!
I have put them on, and I cannot remove them.
My status and engagement depend on you.
I have given away my life to you.
Qawwali, a form of devotional music popular in South Asia, has been passed down through generations and has been an important part of the region’s cultural heritage. Among the many accomplished Qawwals, Ustad Jafar Hussain Khan stands out as one of the most revered and talented performers of his time.
Borm in India, Jafar Hussain Khan was introduced to Qawwali at an early age by his father. Under his father’s guidance, Jafar Hussain Khan honed his skills and soon began performing with him at local gatherings and shrines. His father passed away when he was only 19, leaving Jafar Hussain Khan to carry on his legacy and make a name for himself.
Jafar Hussain Khan’s talent and dedication to the art of Qawwali soon caught the attention of other prominent musicians in Lucknow, and he began to receive invitations to perform at various venues across the city. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled vocalist and an expert in the intricate and complex musical structures of Qawwali.
As his fame grew, Jafar Hussain Khan began to travel throughout India, performing at concerts and festivals, and collaborating with other renowned Qawwals. He also began to record his music, which was released on various albums and enjoyed widespread popularity.
One of Jafar Hussain Khan’s most notable collaborations was with the legendary Qawwal Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Together, they performed at numerous concerts and festivals, and their duets are considered some of the most memorable and iconic moments in the history of Qawwali.
Despite his success, Jafar Hussain Khan remained humble and dedicated to his craft until his passing in 2001. He was known for his powerful voice, his deep understanding of the poetry and lyrics of Qawwali, and his ability to connect with his audience on a spiritual level.
Today, Jafar Hussain Khan’s legacy lives on through his recordings, which continue to inspire and delight fans of Qawwali around the world. His contributions to the art form are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of South Asia and serve as a reminder of the power of music to connect people across cultures and borders.
Bahut Kathin Hai Dagar Panghat Ki [The Path to the Well’ is very difficult] is a beautiful Kalam by Hazrat Amir Khusrow.
Download Bahut Kathin Hai Dagar Panghat Ki song in voice of Ustad Jafar Hussain Khan