"Unchi Talavadi Ni Kor" is a traditional and highly popular Gujarati folk song and Garba. It is a romantic song that beautifully describes a woman's journey to fetch water from a high-banked pond (talavadi) and her encounter with her beloved, referred to as Saybo. The lyrics were traditionally written by Shree Avinash Vyas
Unchi Talavadi ni kor paani gyata,
I went to fetch water from the edge of the high-banked pond (lake), Sets the scene: a woman going about her daily chore
Paani bharata re joyo Saybo.
While filling the water, I saw my beloved (Saybo). The moment of romantic encounter or sighting.
Bole Ashadhi no mor paani gyata,
The peacock of Ashadh (monsoon month) cries out while I went for water, The setting is the monsoon season, which is associated with romance and longing.
Paani bharata re joyo Saybo.
While filling the water, I saw my beloved.
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Ganga Jamani bedalun ne kinkhabi indhoni,
With the Ganga-Jamuna (metal) pot and the beautiful Kinkhabi (brocade) head-rest, Describes her ornate equipment for carrying water.
Najaru dhaali haalu to'y laagi najaru koni.
Even though I walk with my eyes lowered (in shyness/modesty), whose glance has fallen upon me? She is trying to be modest but feels the powerful gaze of her beloved
Vagade gaaje murali na shor, paani gyata,
The sound of the flute (murali) echoes in the wilderness, while I went for water, References the sound of Krishna's flute, which captivates the Gopis (or the devotee).
Paani bharata re joyo Saybo.
While filling the water, I saw my beloved.
--- --- ---
Bhinji bhinji jaaye maara saaduda ni kor,
The edge of my saree (saadu) is getting wet and soaked, Perhaps due to the water spilling or the monsoon moisture.
Aankh madhili gherani, jaane banyu gagan ghanghor.
My intoxicated eyes are surrounded, as if the sky has become heavy with clouds. Describes her emotional state and the intoxicating effect of the encounter/her beloved's presence.
Chhanu na re aankhyu no tor, paani gyata,
The flow of tears (from the eyes) cannot be hidden, while I went for water, Her strong emotions (of love or shyness) are visible.
Paani bharata re joyo Saybo. While filling the water, I saw my beloved.
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