Kalapani Ma
by Bidhan Shrestha
Kalapani Ma is a poignant song that uses the metaphor of fishing in Kalapani (a river, but also symbolizing hardship and struggle) to explore themes of survival, migration, and the pressures of modern life. The lyrics paint a picture of someone driven by necessity to engage in difficult work, reflecting on the complexities of existence and the weight of responsibilities. There's a quiet melancholy throughout, touching on overpopulation, the burden of foreign labor migration, and the scars life leaves on us. The song captures the tension between traditional village life and the pull of seeking work abroad, all while maintaining a reflective, almost resigned tone. It's deeply rooted in Nepali social reality, speaking to the struggles of ordinary people trying to make ends meet and the sacrifices they endure.
Machhi marna jaun hai daajai kalapanima
cheki bari dhuhali mahakali ma
Machhi marna jaun hai daajai kalapanima
(Ban ko kanda le kahile ni korena
Phalame kanad ko taar aahile ) X 2
Manpari hai ganthe hamro panima X 2
Aalai chha ghau aathara ko nalapani ma
Machhi marna jaun hai daajai kalapanima X 2
(Nepali khai kura bujheko
Manpari janasankhya badeko ) X 2
Bidesh ko naukari ko bhar chhaina X 2
Pharkera aaunda ghar chhaina
Machhi marna jaun hai daajai kalapanima X 2
(Thuni deu na chhahine dokah
Swadeshi ho kammarai kasa ) X 2
Mela bharna jaun dajai mechi bagar X 2
Pashupati nagar jange pillar
Machhi marna jaun hai daajai kalapani ma X 4
