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Shah Hussain (1538–1591) was a Punjabi Sufi poet who is regarded as a Sufi saint. He was the son of Sheikh Usman, and belonged to the Dhudhi clan of Rajputs. Born in Lahore, Punjab, he is considered to be a pioneer of the Kafi form of Punjabi poetry.
Shah Hussain is also often known as Shah Hussain Faqir - Faqir meaning Dervish ( mendicant ) and Shah means King. So due to his extremely humble Sufi personality, people called him The Dervish King, a person who was a King and a Dervish at the same time.

Shah Hussain's love for a Brahmin boy called "Madho" or "Madho Lal" is famous, and they are often referred to as a single person with the composite name of "Madho Lal Hussain". Madho's tomb lies next to Hussain's in the shrine.

His tomb and shrine is located at the Baghbanpura precincts, adjacent to the Shalimar Gardens Lahore, Pakistan. His Urs (annual death anniversary) is celebrated at his shrine every year during the "Mela Chiraghan" ("Festival of Lights")
This ‘kafi', works on a dual level, the physical and the spiritual. In this beautifully written poem, the comparison is ostensibly between two lovers but at a spiritual level, it is the desire of a mortal to seek a lasting relationship with God.
Shah Hussain talks of the need for a ‘wakeel’ – a mediator, someone who understands and helps. The reference is to the Prophet and seeking his help in finding true salvation. The concluding lyrics refer to Shah Hussain as a ‘fakir’ or mendicant who laments the transitory nature of life on earth and the ultimate reconciliation of man with his destiny.
In treating this deeply spiritual message, MHB has approached the melody like a soft and lilting ballad that tugs at the heartstrings, makes us reflect on life and in doing so finding that moment that soothes the soul.

lyrics

My beloved has my hand in his,
how can I tell him to leave my hand
The night is dark & stormy,
without a companion/guide/teacher I am lost.
He holds my hand so tightly & with such passion
How can I tell him to leave?
One day you too will release me.
Hussain, the servant of God says,
With just a glance you entered my heart.

credits

from Sampooran 2020, released June 27, 2020
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Mekaal Hasan Band Lahore, Pakistan

The only Indo-Pak band of it's kind featuring the best contemporary musicians from both India and Pakistan!

Mekaal Hasan Band (MHB) was formed in 2000 by guitarist/composer Mekaal Hasan.The music that MHB plays is a progressive mix between the traditional melodic sensibility of the East and the harmonic sophistication of the West. ... more

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