Akhian Hari Darshan Ki Pyasi Lyrics – Surdas Prabhu (Blind Hindu poet of the Devotional Movement) Translation – Indu Dhiru Shah (My Grandmother) Singers – Indu Dhiru Shah & Nami Shah. Original Song – Haimanti Sukla 

My Grandmother, at age 91, flew all the way from Australia to Kenya to come and meet her second great-grandson for the very first time. What followed were two months of joyous fun and bonding, hopefully reflected in this video. Of course there was also time to sing and make music together. My grandmother was actually my very first singing teacher. She gave me my very first indian classical voice and harmonium lesson when I was five years old. However, it took us living in different countries, not seeing each other for nearly five years and two babies later for me to finally listen and become her student. We spent every morning together and she taught me all her beautiful old songs and bhajans.

At age 91, I hope I can still sing and live the way my beautiful grandmother does. Having trained as an opera singer it was very pleasant to return to the songs from my childhood and heritage. I have my grandmother to thank for re-inspiring me and for helping me to rediscover a part of me that I had kept hidden away. I had heard her perform this song many times during my childhood. It was wonderful to finally perform it together and share it with all of you. Many more projects from my heritage coming soon!

Translation below:

Akhian Hari Darshan Ki Pyasi - My eyes are thristy to see the Lord. Dekhyo Chahata Kamala Nayan Ko - I have a wish to see his lotus eyes. Nis Din Ruhut Udasi - Night and Day I am sad. Kesar Tilak Motiyan Ki Mala His sandalwood mark -  his beads of pearls, Virndavan Ke Vasi - The one who resides in Vrindavan. Neha Lagaye Dasigayo Priyatama - He gazed at me and it bit me, my beloved. Dadigayo Galephasi - He tied my neck and left. Kaho Ko Man Ki, Kaun Jaane - Nobody knows how I feel Logan ke Manhasi. Everyone laughs at me Surdaas Prabhu Tumara Daras Bina Surdas - without seeing you Lehee Karvat Kashi Still went on a pilgrimage to Kashi. Akhian Hari Darshan Ki Pyasi - My eyes are thirsty to see the Lord.