Mehshar afridi, a celebrated indian urdu poet, has captivated audiences with his evocative shayari, blending nostalgia, wit, and emotion. one of his most popular couplets,

मैं अगर अपनी जवानी के सुना दूँ क़िस्से
ये जो लौंडे हैं मेरे पाँव दबाने लग जाए

main agar apni jawani ke suna doon qisse
ye jo launde hain mere paon dabane lag jaaye

resonates deeply with poetry lovers for its playful yet poignant reflection on youth. this article delves into the essence of this couplet, its cultural significance, and why it stands out in afridi’s repertoire.

The charm of mehshar afridi’s shayari

born safdar azam khan in roorkee, uttarakhand, mehshar afridi is a modern voice in urdu poetry, known for his ghazals, nazms, and shers that evoke raw emotion. his ability to weave relatable themes with poetic finesse has earned him a global following, with performances at mushayaras and appearances on shows like the kapil sharma show (2023). this couplet, in particular, showcases his knack for blending humor with nostalgia, making it a favorite for sharing on platforms like whatsapp and instagram.

Decoding the couplet

main agar apni jawani ke suna doon qisse
ye jo launde hain mere paon dabane lag jaaye

This couplet reflects afridi’s storytelling prowess. the word jawani (youth) sets a nostalgic tone, inviting listeners to imagine vibrant tales of his younger days. the phrase ye jo launde hain (these young lads) adds a colloquial, almost cheeky vibe, while paon dabane lag jaaye (start pressing my feet) humorously suggests that his stories are so compelling that the younger generation would be left in awe, ready to serve him out of respect or amazement. the imagery is vivid, and the tone is light yet commanding, making it a perfect blend of pride and playfulness.

Cultural and emotional resonance

The couplet taps into a universal sentiment: the glorification of youth. in indian culture, storytelling about one’s prime is a cherished tradition, often shared with younger generations to inspire or entertain. afridi’s use of launde connects directly with the youth, making the couplet relatable across age groups. its humor softens the boastful undertone, creating a bond between the poet and his audience. this relatability is why the sher is widely shared on social media, resonating with those who appreciate urdu poetry’s wit and wisdom.

Why this couplet stands out?

Afridi’s shayari often balances simplicity with depth, and this couplet is no exception. its conversational style makes it accessible, while the underlying pride in one’s past adds emotional weight. the line’s virality on platforms highlights its appeal in the digital age, where short, impactful shers thrive as instagram captions or whatsapp statuses. its shareability is one of the reasons it resonates so well with audiences.

Afridi’s legacy in urdu poetry

Mehshar afridi’s work, including this couplet, continues to enrich urdu literature. his ability to craft shers that are both timeless and trendy ensures his place among contemporary poets. whether you’re a fan of ghazals or new to urdu shayari, this couplet is a perfect entry point to explore afridi’s poetic world.