In a Ghazal, the first line (Matla) is repeated to establish the rhythm and the emotional hook. It is like a chorus that anchors the listener before the poetic variations (Sher) begin.

The song "Chand Se Parda Kijiye" (चाँद से पर्दा कीजिए), famously sung by Noor Jehan and later reprised by Ghulam Ali, is a timeless ghazal that blends coy romance with celestial imagery. Literally meaning "Draw a Curtain from the Moon," the lyrics playfully suggest hiding one’s beauty from the moon itself, because the moon might feel jealous.

However, many existing English translations miss the lyrical grace, cultural nuance, and poetic wordplay. Here’s a better, more faithful translation that preserves the mood, metaphor, and melody.

The song transitions from the safety of the night to the exposure of the morning.

Hindi:

Subah ka suraj dekh ke Duniya kehti hai sharma ke Tumse milke hum jal gaye Husn ki aag laga gaye

Translation:

Seeing the morning sun, The shy world whispers: "We were scorched meeting you, You set the world ablaze with your beauty."

Literal: Put a curtain on the moon. The lover has come out. Put a curtain on the moon.

Better Translation:

Draw the veil across the moon’s face now, Hide the silver light, take the bow. For my beloved steps into view, So draw the veil across the moon’s brow.

The song circles back to the desire for privacy and the intimacy of the night.

Hindi:

Phir bhi aap hain ghataayi hue Parda kar lijiye raat se Chand se parda kijiye...

Translation:

Yet you remain veiled and hidden, Take cover within the night. Veil yourself behind the moon...