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Pilgrimage of Amir

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Pilgrimage of Amir
Çakaristan symbol.png
Original title Pilgrimage of Amir and his quest to the Great Craitgod
Language Common Tongue
Author(s) Gustaaf Vermeylen
Genre Historical narratives
Location(s) Çakaristan
Craitland
(main) character(s) Amir Çakar
Timeframe 1692 -1698 AN

The Pilgrimage of Amir is a story series in which Amir Çakar goes on a pilgrimage to Craitland. It describes the journey and the experiences of the main character.

Temporary exemption

Sitting on a throne, Amir played with a sword. He knew that his mission embraced more than Kendall Isle, but the new responsibilities to govern his royal state came to him. He had to meet for days, had so many responsibilities and meetings. The walls of his palace approached him. He wanted to leave, but he could not. He thought of his younger brother: what should it be like for him? He had his royal state, but Abu had a whole sultanate. He was not at all jealous of his younger brother. Perhaps because of his beautiful wife, but nothing else. The next delegation entered the Chamber. A model of a temple had been made on a mobile table. The temple for the great Craitgod, which was to be built in Çatalyokuş. While the advisor was talking to the initiators, Amir was actually not listening. He was deeply absorbed in thought when he suddenly said: "What does Craitland really look like? While the echo of Amir's question reflected, it remained silent afterwards. Nobody actually knew the answer. After a while Amir said: "Then somebody has to go to Craitland to look there, doesn't he? The advisors nodded at each other, but no one stepped forward to make themselves available. Amir sniffled and said: "Then I'll go, won't I?" The advisers and the delegation did not dare to answer.

The next day Amir flew to Agra. There he met his older brother Hasan and of course his younger brother the Sultan. Hasan's fiancée and the Sultana waved the men off when they left the Red Fortress on horseback to ride through the hills. For the first time in years the brothers went out together. They used to go camping, now they only go horseback riding for a few hours. All three of them realised that the restlessness of their youth was really over. But just smelling the freedom, that was the idea. "What is it like to be a father, my brother?" Hasan asked his youngest brother. Abu thought for a moment: "There are emotions and feelings that happen to you, which you could never think you could experience. It is impossible to describe what it does to you when you become a father. Many men conceive children, but not all of them become fathers. Not all are worthy of being called fathers, but for those men who become fathers, there are no words to describe the richness of compassion, love, pride, affection, offering protection, responsibility, recognition, insecurity, finding a new purpose, lifelong commitment, shifting priorities, self-sacrifice, and so on and so forth." Amir began to smile.

The three brothers stopped at a flowing stream. They descended from their horses, distracting them to let them drink. They also sat down for a moment. Typical Çakari sweets appeared, drinking and other refreshments. They laughed together, they had forgotten their present positions for a moment in their being together. That disappeared when Amir nervously asked Akbar: "Can I be temporarily relieved of my mission to go on a pilgrimage to Craitland?” Akbar was amazed at the question, thought for a moment and answered: “Well, climb Mount Horn on The Fifth Isle. Tell us about Craitland, because there are still mountains to conquer in Çakaristan". Amir did not really expect his brother, the Sultan, to agree. But he began to smile gratefully, did not say a word for a few moments. "Thank you," stammered Amir. Hasan looked at Akbar and asked: "Why do you agree?” Akbar answered: "You have found your joy in a woman, Amir is still alone. Let him climb mountains, for who knows how many mountains there are between him and his destination". Hasan was not so poetic, but left it at that.

The women, Jodha and Manikarnika, had organised a home reception together with the court ladies. With song, dance, music, food and drink the three brothers were welcomed at the Red Fortress. Their arrival was as if they had returned from a long journey or even as if they had come home from a battle. As if they were gone for days, weeks or months. Amir saw how happy his brothers were with their women. The ladies in the court made Amir very graceful, but he had little eye for them. Instead of returning, he would leave. Leaving for an unknown country, the land of the great Craitgod.

Adarani Transliteration Translated in Common Tongue

अलबेला साजन आयो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
मोरा अति मन सुख पायो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
मोरा अति मन सुख पायो री

अलबेला साजन आयो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री

छनुक पूराओ मंगल गाओ
छनुक पूराओ मंगल गाओ
अति मन सुख पायो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
मोरा अति मन सुख पायो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री

अंग सुघंधित मन आनंदित
अंग सुघंधित मन आनंदित
चहूँ और रंग बरसाओ
चहूँ और रंग बरसाओ री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
मोरा अति मन सुख पायो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
मोरा अति मन सुख पायो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
अलबेला साजन आयो री
अलबेला..

albela sajan aayo ri
albela sajan aayo ri
mora ati mann sukh paayo ri
albela sajan aayo ri
mora ati mann sukh aayo ri

albela sajan aayo ree..

chauk puraao mangal gaao
chauk puraao mangal gaao
ati mann sukh paayo ri
albela sajan aayo ri
mora ati mann sukh paayo ri
albela sajan aayo ri
albela sajan aayo re..

ang sugandhit mann aanandit
ang sugandhit mann aanandit
chahun aur rang barsaayo
chahun aur rang barsaayo ri

albela sajan aayo ri
albela sajan aayo re
mora ati mann sukh paayo re
albela sajan aayo ri
albela sajan aayo ri

my unique beloved has come,
my heart has found deep joy.

clean and decorate the courtyard, sing auspicious songs,

the body is fragrant and the heart is happy,
in all directions there are colors raining..
my unique beloved has come,
my heart has found deep joy..

my unique beloved has come.


It is cold there

Still Amir was surprised that the Sultan allowed him to go on a pilgrimage. But optimistically Amir went to work making preparations. First he went back to Lyzij. There he appointed a Regent to act for him. He gave instructions for the division of provinces, regional administration and building up the infrastructure. But also his plan for democratisation. When that was settled, Amir flew to Agra.

In Agra, he met Ana al-Zamard. He asked her to advise the Sultan to conclude a treaty with Jingdao on the Antican Sea. This was to define terrorist waters and exclusive economic zones. There should be no friction among allies, while it could be easily arranged. He also asked Ana to look after the gas needs of Jabal al-Mada', when that part of the treaty is settled. Ana promised to do so.

Since Ana has a lot of experience about many countries on Micras, he asked her about Craitland. "The culture is different there, it is cold there, but the people are warm," Ana told him. The next day, Amir went to visit Craitland's ambassador in Agra. Ersan Dóla received the Sultan's brother with all egars. He was very honoured. Amir asked him about Craitland when they had a private moment. The ambassador was praising his homeland, despite the fact that his hometown was now under a different flag. Amir was asked to dress warmly. "It's cold there," Ersan said. Amir had to chuckle, everyone said that. Amir asked further, about what to do and especially what not to do. Ersan answered Amir's questions, so their meeting lasted for hours.

A few days later, Amir left for Çakarabad for the upcoming wedding of his brother, Hasan to his fiancée, Manikarnika. After that wedding, Amir was to leave for Craitland. For that, he first had to go to Manbai by train, because a Craitish airline has Manbai as one of its destinations in Çakaristan.

First impressions of Craitland

Amir sat glued to the window as the plane approached Craitland. Recently, the flight time has been drastically reduced. As a result of the recent treaty between Çakaristan and Senya, planes are now allowed to fly over that country. A more efficient flight route and shorter travel time. A clear advantage of the sultanate's active foreign policy. When the Fifth Island came in sight, Amir's heart rumbled violently. His deep desire to visit this land, the land of the great Craitgod! What was waiting for him there? That was the big question.

When the plane finally landed, it seemed to take hours for Amir to stand in the arrival hall. The first impression was that the country looked neat and orderly. Customs was bureaucratic, as in other nations. The airport was crowded, like other airports. The hall was like other halls, a lot of steel and concrete. The people, they looked different. Warmly dressed, but not in sober colours. To his own surprise, he saw someone standing at the exit of the arrival terminal with a sign bearing his name. His name was written correctly, including the cedilla under the c. Amir smiled and reported to the person.

"Mr Çakar?", the lady asked. "Yes, that's right. With whom do I have the pleasure?", replied Amir. "My name is Ĵennifer Cóldótór, I have been sent to be your personal guide and to be of service to you", she replied. Amir was surprised and said, "Sent? By whom?" Ĵennifer replied, "Apologies, I should have said that right away: by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The brother of the head of state of a friendly nation, he wouldn't just be wandering around our country, would he?" Amir smiled, "Thank you, as well as thanks to your employer, shall we get off to a good start then?" Ĵennifer nodded. Amir continued, "Would you call me 'Amir', not sir or even khan? I would therefore like to compliment you on your excellent pronunciation of my surname. That does not usually go down well.” Ĵennifer nodded and explained that the Craitish culture does have more different pronunciations and letters than is usual in standard Common Language.

When they stood outside, Amir remarked: "It is indeed cold here. A lot colder than my homeland. But not as cold as at the top of Jabal al-Mada'." A black car drove up and Amir's suitcases were loaded by the driver. When Amir and Ĵennifer were seated in the back seat, Ĵennifer said, "You climbed that mountain, right?" "Yes," replied Amir, "that's right. As a matter of fact, I hope to climb the mountain in this country, Mount Horn." Ĵennifer replied, "Really? I didn't expect that." Amir grinned, looking out the window of the moving car. Outside, he saw a neatly ordered environment. The the few car drivers were obeying the traffic rules, as indicated by the road signs. But more than that, they were driving within the lines. They used their blinkers when changing lanes. In large parts of Çakaristan, the lane markings are more of a suggestion, than that the car drivers took the markings seriously.

Pedestrians at a crossing with traffic lights also remain standing. There were cyclists to be seen, but they were riding on their own cycle track. No donkeys, handcarts or rickshaws in sight. Most people used public transport. Buses and trams marked the street scene. He saw a bus, where everybody sat neatly on a seat and waited for the bus to stop. How different it was in Agra, where passengers stood close together and sometimes left the bus through a window. Especially in Haritdesh, it was common to hitch a ride on the roof of the bus. There, a kind of seat was placed, where one could ride along for free. Here in Craitland, everything was neatly arranged.

When we arrived at the hotel, Amir's luggage was unloaded and brought inside. At the front desk, Amir didn't really have to say anything. "Mr Çakar, welcome to Craitland! Your room has been prepared for you," said the hotel manager. Amir was surprised and said, "Thank you very much". He picked up the keycard and turned to Ĵennifer. "It's been arranged in tip-top fashion, your government has taken good care of that." "What time would you like a tour of the city?", Ĵennifer asked. "After breakfast," Amir replied as he turned to the hotel manager. The hotel manager: "You can have your breakfast in your room or in the restaurant. That is entirely up to you, as well as the time of day." Amir thought for a moment, "Breakfast at 8 and here in the lobby at 9." Both listeners nodded and Amir was taken to his room. It was the most luxurious room in the hotel. Two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, and a sitting room with two large doors to the balcony.


Royal impressions

The next morning, Amir got up early. He had only had a simple evening meal, as he was suffering from jet lag. After a good night's rest, Amir was back to normal. Because of the light meal the night before, Amir was very hungry. After he got dressed, he went out onto the balcony. Once again he marvelled at the neatness of the city. It was not so densely built up and certainly without high-rise buildings. He also saw no domes of temples, an absence of religious buildings. He wondered, 'Does this country have a soul?' There was plenty of room for greenery, there was very little road traffic, especially buses and trams. He heard the bell of the town hall strike eight times, the signal that it was time for breakfast. Amir took one more breath of fresh air and went downstairs.

At the table, Amir was served a typical Craitish breakfast. Amir looked surprised at what he saw before him. He asked the waiter to tell him what had been served. "Of course," said the waiter, "two slices of rye bread topped with pale yellow hard cheese. A bowl of beer porridge, a thin porridge cooked with pieces of rye bread, low-alcohol white beer, water and sugar, and served with milk. A soft-boiled egg and rolled raw ham. A glass of apple juice. May I offer you tea or coffee?" Amir took a moment to digest the quick explanation. Then he looked at the waiter and replied, "Tea, please." Amir tasted everything that was put in front of him. It was surprisingly tasty. In his homeland, the food was more colourful and spicy. Not that it was colourless here, but different.

After breakfast, Amir walked to the lobby, where Ĵennifer was already waiting for him. He gestured as if he had a watch on his wrist, but he hadn't worn a watch for years. Ĵennifer laughed and immediately said, "You're right, I'm early." Amir smiled. Ĵennifer continued, "Being late is considered an insult to the guest here." "That's a good principle," Amir responded. "I'm sorry to spoil any plans you may have for today", Ĵennifer said. Amir looked surprised, but said nothing. "You are invited to join the king," Ĵennifer continued. Amir replied, "In my homeland it is an insult if you refuse an invitation. Especially when the king invites you". Ĵennifer smiled with relief and said: "It is the same here. Together they walked outside.

There was no car coming. They went to the royal palace on foot. Amir had the feeling that they were taking the scenic route. That way Amir got to see more of Cherry Trees. The central park was neatly laid out, symmetrical and orderly. There were many cherry trees planted there, a characteristic of the city. The people in the park were relaxed. Couples in love sat on the edge of the fountain or on one of the many benches. They often drank tea, but just as ecstatic in love, the cold no longer played a role. After the park, Amir and Ĵennifer came near the palace. The royal palace looked modest, in the middle of the other buildings. The ceremonial guard stood at attention in front of the palace. Tourists looked surprised when Amir and Ĵennifer were let through the gate.

Waiting in the reception hall was the Ambassador of Çakaristan in Craitland, Jhanda Panja. "Your royal highness, thank you for coming," the ambassador said. "May I use your presence here to plead for a place for the pilgrims from Çakaristan and other countries," the ambassador continued. "It is a secular country, you know that better than me, but we can try," Amir replied. A footman escorted the Khan and the ambassador to another room. There, the King and Queen were already waiting. The King said, "Welcome, Khan Çakar," as he walked towards Amir. "How good that you are here," the King continued. Amir replied, "Thank you, your majesty, for your welcome. Thank you for your guidance", he made a hand gesture to Ĵennifer. The King said smiling, "We want to make the guests feel comfortable". "We did," Amir responded. "May I introduce you to the Queen," the King said, stepping aside and pointing to the Queen with a hand gesture. Amir gave her a hand kiss, which made Anika smile. "Welcome to Craitland," said Anika. To which Amir replied, "Thank you, Your Majesty".


At the Round Table

After Amir had a cup of tea with the King and Queen, he was escorted to another room of the palace. In that hall, there was a large round table. Amir looked at that round table in amazement, because no one at that table is in a prominent position. Everyone is equal. With a hand gesture, the King invited Amir to take a seat at the table. Besides the King, the Ambassador of Çakaristan, the Prime Minister of Craitland and the Minister of Foreign Affairs also took their seats. The King opened the meeting and welcomed everyone. "This meeting is on the occasion of your arrival, Khan Çakar, and at the request of the Ambassador of Çakaristan. Would you be so kind as to present your points of discussion?" "Yes indeed," Amir began, "first of all, thank you for your warm welcome. Also the good care by sending a guide, Ĵennifer Cóldótór." The King nodded in satisfaction.

"In my country, Çakaristan, as well as our ideological brother-nation, Arbor, belief in the great Craitgod has become a widespread religion. Although the forms and experiences are still too new to become traditions, the common thread is a message of peace. There is also a growing desire for tangible experience, such as visiting Craitland. It is the belief in the great Craitgod that inspired me to come here. But there are more believers who would like to go on a pilgrimage." Amir made a hand gesture to the ambassador, who immediately picked up the thread of the story: "The first estimates point to 600,000 pilgrims a year and growing. The good diplomatic relations between Craitland and the Cresent nations of Arbor and Çakaristan form a good basis. Çakaristan has recently signed a treaty with Senya, making the flight route more efficient."

The foreign minister responded, "We are of course very happy with the prospect of 600,000 tourists a year. Certainly if that number grows in the coming years, the necessary facilities will have to adapt accordingly. Are there any specific issues we should be aware of?" Amir replied, "Your country, with all due respect, is a secular country. For that reason, the pilgrims will experience a culture shock. It would be good to have at least one point of reference that the pilgrims can recognise. Focus, so to speak. All temples in honour of the great Craitgod are focused on Cherry Trees. Even in one place specifically, from what I have come to know: the seat of Craitgod." The King said in surprise, "You are well informed, I know of one structure known as a divine seat. It stands not so far from here, is that the seat you mean?" "If you mean, your majesty, the structure near here by the river, then yes," Amir replied. "Okay, let's go to that place," the King responded.

This time, Amir was surprised when the King stood up and apparently put his money where his mouth was. The minister also stood up and apparently found the King's behaviour normal. Amir looked at the Ambassador who shrugged his shoulders. Then the Çakari men also stood up and followed the King. There was no commotion in the streets when the King and his guests left the palace and walked towards the river. Via the stone arch bridge they walked towards the seat. The monument was visible from the bridge. A simple stone monument. The King remained standing, when he noticed that Amir was slowing down as he approached the monument. Amir approached humbly. He said, "From this hallowed place the great Craitgod proclaimed peace over all Micras".

Back in the palace, the party did not go back to the room with the round table. They said goodbye to the government officials and the ambassador. Amir was invited by the King to stay for dinner. Through the corridors of the palace, the two men entered the dining hall. There was not only the Queen present, but also other family members. The King said, "May I introduce you to my brother, Edward, Prince of New Vaduz and his daughter, Catherine." Amir shook hands with each. The King noting that Amir was only introducing himself by his name, corrected Amir by saying, "Amir is Khan of Jabal al-Mada' and brother of the Sultan of Çakaristan." Amir, who had just held Catherine's hand, replied, "That too yes". The eye contact with Catherine was brief, but long enough that a tension could be felt.

At the table, Amir sat opposite Catherine. Every time he looked at her, she looked away. And when she looked, he looked away quickly. The Queen had already noticed and was smiling. Edward asked Amir, "How do you like it here in Craitland?" Amir replied, "Well, what can I say. It's cold here." Catherine who had just taken a sip of water burst into laughter and struggled to keep the water in her mouth. Her father looked a bit irritated at his daughter, who said, "Sorry, but Mr Çakar is right. It's cold here, colder than in New Vaduz and I suspect also a lot colder than in Çakaristan." "That's right", Amir assisted her, "please call me 'Amir'". The Queen said, "It seems to me that at the top of Jabal al-Mada' it is at least as cold as here". "That is quite true", said Amir, "in all modesty I must state that I do not know what the weather is like in summer. In Çakaristan it is often hot and people complain that it is cold when the temperature drops to 10 degrees above freezing." The company laughed.

After dinner, Amir stood on the balcony, wanting to call his brother. But he realised that it was six hours later in Agra. So he decided not to call. The Queen had sent for a glass of malem for Amir, but instead of the staff giving it to Amir, the glass was given to Catherine. Catherine was surprised, but understood the Queen's encouraging nod. She understood what the Queen meant and the intention behind it. Still she did not resist and went with the glass malem to the balcony. There stood Amir looking at the clear starry sky. Obviously Amir had gotten used to the cold, for he had not put on his coat. He heard Catherine coming, after which he turned around. He smiled when he saw Catherine coming. "What a service", he said when Catherine offered the glass of malem. "Here you are," Catherine replied.

To break the tension, Amir looked for an opening line. But Catherine beat him to it and said, "What a beautiful clear night!" "Yes", said Amir, "Wherever you are on Micras, a clear starry sky is a true crowning glory". "Absolutely true", said Catherine, admiring the wise words. Amir smiled and continued, "It may be silly, but that saying goes on: Home is the place close to the heart of your beloved." "Well", Catherine responded, "I like that". A moment followed when they both looked at the starry sky. Amir said, "I have a problem". Catherine turned and leaned against the railing of the balcony. "If you would be so free, what is your problem?", she said. "Well", Amir began hesitantly, "Where do you take a princess without it being in the paper the next day?" Catherine replied, "The lucky lady would do well to take you to Jedu-ó-Kuiĵ. This is a beautiful old town, where a seaside restaurant offers a place for exclusive guests." Amir played that he was thinking and said, "Well, it would please me greatly if I could take you to Jedu-ó-Kuiĵ and offer you a dinner there in the restaurant you just described.” "It's a strange way to ask a girl out, but agreed," Catherine replied.


Jhoom barabar

The next morning, Amir lay on his bed for an unusually long time. He wondered how he could tame his thoughts, how else could he subdue Mount Horn? Butterflies in his stomach, dreaming of a woman in a strange land. He called his brother, in Çakaristan it was already noon. His brother was even an hour closer, for Akbar and Jodha were in Haritdesh. When Amir hesitantly told him about his meeting with Catherine, Akbar was so excited that he put the phone on speaker, so that Jodha could also listen in. "Don't tease your brother," Amir heard Jodha say. Amir sighed and said, "Never mind, I know Abu and didn't expect anything else.”

Amir recounted his adventures in Craitland and his meeting with Catherine. Jodha said, "Keep your head up. Think of it as a mountain you want to climb. You prepare, you don't get distracted because one misstep and you get down faster than you would like." "Wow, what a metaphor," said Akbar, who went on to say, "Test her character, because no matter how pretty she is, her looks will one day turn to wrinkles and her hair will turn grey. But what remains is character." Recognising his father's words, Amir said, "A practical tip?" "Yes," Akbar began, "climb Mount Horn and if at the top you are still in awe of her, devise a way to test her character." "How can I test her?", asked Amir. Jodha replied, "She's from New Vaduz, right?" "Yes", Amir responded. "Well", Jodha continued, "Learn some words Germanian, if she has also learned some words Arboric, then she has also made an effort to know something of your culture". "Thank you very much," Amir concluded.

After the phone call, Amir sighed. He walked out of the hotel and started singing:

Adarani Transliteration Translated in Common Tongue

ना हरम में, ना सुकूँ मिलता है बुतखाने में
चैन मिलता है तो साक़ी तेरे मैखाने में

झूम, झूम, झूम
झूम बराबर झूम शराबी, झूम बराबर झूम
झूम बराबर झूम शराबी, झूम बराबर झूम
झूम बराबर झूम शराबी, झूम बराबर झूम
काली घटा है, आ आ..., मस्त फ़ज़ा है, आ आ...
काली घटा है मस्त फ़ज़ा है, जाम उठाकर घूम घूम घूम
झूम बराबर ...

आज अँगूर की बेटी से मुहौब्बत कर ले
शेख साहब की नसीहत से बग़ावत कर ले
इसकी बेटी ने उठा रखी है सर पर दुनिया
ये तो अच्छा हुआ के अँगूर को बेटा ना हुआ
कमसेकम सूरत-ए-साक़ी का नज़ारा कर ले
आके मैख़ाने में जीने का सहारा कर ले
आँख मिलते ही जवानी का मज़ा आयेगा
तुझको अँगूर के पानी का मज़ा आयेगा
हर नज़र अपनी बसद शौक़ गुलाबी कर दे
इतनी पीले के ज़माने को शराबी कर दे
जाम जब सामने आये तो मुकरना कैसा
बात जब पीने की आजाये तो डरना कैसा
धूम मची है, आ आ..., मैख़ाने में, आ आ...
धूम मची है मैख़ाने में, तू भी मचा ले धूम धूम धूम
झूम बराबर ...

इसके पीनेसे तबीयत में रवानी आये
इसको बूढ़ा भी जो पीले तो जवानी आये
पीने वाले तुझे आजाएगा पीने का मज़ा
इसके हर घूँट में पोशीदा है जीने का मज़ा
बात तो जब है के तू मै का परस्तार बने
तू नज़र डाल दे जिस पर वोही मैख़्वार बने
मौसम-ए-गुल में तो पीने का मज़ा आता है
पीने वालों को ही जीने का मज़ा आता है
जाम उठाले, आ आ..., मुँह से लगाले, आ आ...
जाम उठाले, मुँह से लगाले, मुँह से लगाकर चूम चूम चूम
झूम बराबर ...

जो भी आता है यहाँ पीके मचल जाता है
जब नज़र साक़ी की पड़ती है सम्भल जाता है
आ इधर झूमके साक़ी का लेके नाम उठा
देख वो अब्र उठा तू भी ज़रा जाम उठा
इस क़दर पीले के रग-रग में सुरूर आजाये
कसरत मै से तेरे चेहरे पे नूर आजाये
इसके हर कतरे में नाज़ाँ है निहाँ दरियादिली
इसके पीनेसे पता होती है के ज़िन्दादिली
शान से पीले, आ आ..., शान से जीले, आ आ...
शान से पीले शान से जीले, घूम नशे में घूम घूम घूम
झूम बराबर ...

O aaja aaja rabba ishqe di khol guttiya
Aaja rabba ishqe di khol guttiya
O aaja aaja rabba ishqe di khol guttiya
Kaat na munaafe anmol guttiya

Te laagi te laagi te laagi joh lagave na lage aashiqui
Te laagi te laagi te laagi joh lagave na lage aashiqui
Udti udti akhiyon ke
Lad gaye penche lad gaye ve
Deek lagake jhoom jhoom jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom

O kab lage kahan rab jaane
Jab lage jahan sab jaane, rabba
Har chot maza deti hai
Jeene ki saza deti hai, rabba
Jhooti mooti baatein sunke
Gungunati aankhen sunke
Jalave bujhave bujhave jalave oye maumbattiyan
Jalave bujhave bujhave jalave oye maumbattiyan
Udti udti akhiyon ke
Lad gaye penche lad gaye ve
Deek lagake jhoom jhoom jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom

O yeh ishq purana paapi
Har baar khata karta hai, rabba
Har baar bachata hoon main
Har baar yeh jaa marta hai, rabba
O paas koi aa gaya toh
Raas koi aa gaya toh
Baar baar baar kaleje pe na maar akhiyan
Baar baar baar kaleje pe na maar akhiyan
Udti udti akhiyon ke
Lad gaye penche lad gaye ve
Deek lagake jhoom jhoom jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom

Aaja aaja aaja rabba ishqe di khol guttiya
Kaat na munaafe anmol guttiya
Te laagi te laagi te laagi joh lagave na lage aashiqui
Te laagi te laagi te laagi joh lagave na lage aashiqui
Udti udti akhiyon ke
Lad gaye penche lad gaye ve
Deek lagake jhoom jhoom jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom barabar jhoom
Rabba!

Come on God, please solve the mysteries of love
Come on God, please solve the mysteries of love
Come on God, please solve the mysteries of love
Don't cut through the profits, they are priceless

It affects those who are in love
It affects those who are in love
The flying and wandering eyes
Got locked into one another
Dance putting all your heart behind it
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content

Only God knows when you'll fall in love
Everyone will know when you fall in love
Every wound gives joy
It gives the punishment of life
After hearing the false talks
After hearing the singing eyes
The candles burn and extinguish
The candles burn and extinguish
The flying and wandering eyes
Got locked into one another
Dance putting all your heart behind it
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content

This love is an old sinner
It makes a mistake everytime
Everytime I try to save it
Everytime it goes and dies
If someone comes close to you
If you like someone
Don't throw your gaze again and again on their heart
Don't throw your gaze again and again on their heart
The flying and wandering eyes
Got locked into one another
Dance putting all your heart behind it
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content

Come on God, please solve the mysteries of love
Don't cut through the profits, they are priceless
It affects those who are in love
It affects those who are in love
The flying and wandering eyes
Got locked into one another
Dance putting all your heart behind it
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
Dance till your heart's content
O God!


Clear goal

For days Amir had been preparing to climb Mount Horn. He had travelled to Hänävissen-ó-Cräiteland. That town had been halfway to the top of Mount Horn, or Hänävissen in Craitish. The mountain dominates the town and a lively economy has grown up around the mountain climbers. It is not difficult for Amir to get the necessary equipment, nor to get guides. This is different from when he climbed Jabal al-Mada'. Then there were no guides, the equipment came from the special forces. Here in Craitland, all the necessities were available in shops.

"There are paths up to certain vantage points, but if you want to go to the top, you really have to climb," said one of the guides. Amir bent over the map and asked, "Which route would you recommend to reach the top?" "That is the southwest route, similar in profile to your ascent of the Jabal al-Mada'," the guide replied. Amir nodded and made notes in his notebook. "What is the weather forecast?", Amir asked. The guide looked at his mobile and said, "There is still a lot of wind tonight, but tomorrow morning after 6 am the forecast is favourable." The next morning, the escorts were ready when Amir arrived at the meeting point. With an all-terrain vehicle, the group went to the starting point where they had to continue on foot. The atmosphere was good with a healthy amount of tension. Before leaving, Amir had prayed for a safe trip. When the all-terrain vehicle stopped at the end of the road, they all got out. The first part of the path was not very steep, but it was well passable. There was a clear starting point from which ropes and hooks had already been attached. There they put on their harnesses, helmets and rucksacks. They clapped hands and so they started to climb. The first part went well, as they were still full of energy. After that, encouragement became a lot more important, because slowly they got tired and started to feel pain.

There were parts of the route that were steep, others that were flatter. Sometimes there was a ledge, sometimes a wall. Whether it was willpower or physical ability, that was the question for Amir when he finally reached the top of the mountain. This time he did not plant a flag in the snow, but held the flags of Çakaristan and Craitland as a photograph was taken. The weather was calm, so he could sit quietly on the summit for a moment. The sky was clear, the effort of climbing meant that the cold was not too bad. Amir could think everything through clearly. He looked at the landscape below. Somewhere there was an interesting lady walking around. He thought about the words of his brother and his sister-in-law. He asked one of his companions, "Where can I learn Germanian?" The attendant was surprised at the question, and after some hesitation, he replied, "Ehm... I do know someone in Osĵätoņ, who can teach you Germanian". Amir stood up and said, "Good, then that's my next destination."

A few days later, Amir arrived in Osĵätoņ. This second city of Craitland is more compact than the capital, but also has more modern buildings. Its location on Bruges Bay gives the opportunity for several boat connections to continental Apollonia, as well as to cities on Benacia. In addition, the city is the starting point for railway lines to all corners of the Fifth Isle. Having little time to explore the city, Amir went to see the teacher who could teach him Germanian. For days, Amir practised the words, so that he could at least speak some sentences. Ordering a coffee or a beer in Germanian, Amir had mastered. But also some romantic phrases, compliments for a lady. The teacher gave Amir some tips on how to avoid the most important mistakes in Germanian. Amir was not an accomplished Germanian speaker, but at least he could show Catherine that he was doing his best to learn something of her cultural background.

Just four steps

Amir left by boat for Jedu-ó-Kuiĵ. He felt some tension to meet Catherine. With his arms on the railing he stared over the water. He thought about what might be in store for him. But he also longed for his homeland again. He wondered if he would return with a princess by his side. Silently he prayed: 'Oh great Craitgod, I have not found you. Only a shrine where believers can worship you. If you are there, if you hear me, give me wisdom.'

When the boat had docked and Amir disembarked, he saw a young lady standing on the quay. She was half sitting on a light blue scooter. The young lady was dressed in a summer red dress, black boots and a black leather jacket. She had a helmet under her arm, matching the scooter. Another helmet was lying on the saddle. The young lady looked searchingly through large sunglasses at the people coming off the boat. Amir smiled when she took off her sunglasses and smiled broadly at him. Although it was not agreed, she wanted to see him already. Like him, she could not wait for their actual date.

Amir walked up to her and said: “Hallo Hübsche” (Hello, beautiful). Catherine said surprised and after hesitating for a moment: “Shubh din sar, jaisa ki aap yahaan agyaat hain, aapako yaatra kee aavashyakata ho sakatee hai” (Good day sir, since you are a stranger here, you may need a guided tour) Amir played that he thought for a moment and replied: "Is shahar ka vyaktigat daura karana mere lie vaastavik khushee hai”(It is my pleasure to give you a personal tour of this town). Enthusiastically, Catherine reached for the helmet from the saddle and put on her own helmet. She deftly pushed the scooter off the stand, started the engine and sat down. With a nod she signalled to Amir to sit behind her. Amir had to see where he would hold on, he didn't dare to hold Catherine by her waist.

Catherine steered her scooter between the other traffic and, like a true city guide, started telling them all sorts of things worth knowing about Jedu-ó-Kuiĵ. They drove along the fish market, the theatre and the town hall. All buildings and of quaint architecture. Amir was impressed, but actually he paid attention to the beautiful voice of Catherine. When Catherine had driven to a viewpoint, near the lighthouse, from where you could overlook the town, they dismounted. Catherine invited Amir to use one of the binoculars to look over the sea. Many tourists try to look at the Fifth Isle, but it is too far away to see it. Catherine walked to the kiosk to buy a postcard. While she was making her purchase, she looked at Amir. He was looking through the binoculars, only not at the sea, but at her. She looked strangely and gestured questioningly. Amir was caught out and turned the binoculars away, pretending to look over the sea again, and peered at Catherine.

They walked through the park together. Side by side, but neither of them dared to go hand-in-hand. They both knew that they could feel the tension. At a coffee shop, they each got a cappuccino. They walked on together. Catherine chatted while Amir took a sip. Milk foam stuck to his upper lip, but before he noticed, Catherine did. She stopped Amir from walking and removed the milk foam with her finger. Immediately afterwards, she continued walking. Amir remained standing spellbound and felt his upper lip with his hand. Catherine had touched him. He then quickly walked on, taking another sip. Now on purpose he left the milk foam on his upper lip. Catherine saw that he had milk foam on his upper lip again and stopped Amir. She removed the milk foam and walked on. Amir was enchanted.

A little later, Amir sat on a bench listening to the beautiful voice of Catherine. He did not really hear what she was saying, but he had a song in his head:


Adarani Transliteration Translated in Common Tongue

हम्म..
बिन पुछे मेरा नाम और पता
रस्मों को रख के परे
चार कदम बस चार कदम
चल दो ना साथ मेरे

बिन पुछे मेरा नाम और पता
रस्मों को रख के परे
चार कदम बस चार कदम
चल दो ना साथ मेरे

बिन कुछ कहे, बिन कुछ सुने
हाथों में हाथ लिए
चार कदम बस चार कदम
चल दो ना साथ मेरे

हे बिन कुछ कहे, बिन कुछ सुने
हाथों में हाथ लिए
चार कदम बस चार कदम
चल दो ना साथ मेरे

राहों में तुमको जो धूप सताए
छाँव बिछा देंगे हम
अंधेरे डराए तो जा कर फलक पे
चाँद सज़ा देंगे हम
छाए उदासी लतीफ़े सुना कर
तुझको हँसा देंगे हम
हँसते हँसाते यूँही गुनगुनाते
चल देंगे चार कदम

तुमसा मिले जो कोई रहगुज़र
दुनिया से कौन डरे
चार कदम क्या सारी उमर
चल दूँगी साथ तेरे

बिन कुछ कहे, बिन कुछ सुने
हाथों में हाथ लिए चार
कदम बस चार
कदम चल दो ना साथ मेरे

बिन कुछ कहे, बिन कुछ सुने
हाथों में हाथ लिए
चार कदम बस चार कदम
चल दो ना साथ मेरे

Bin puchhe mera naam or pataa
Rasmon ko rakh ke pare..
chaar kadam bas chaar kadam..
Chal do na saath mere.

Bin puchhe mera naam aur pataa
Rasmon ko rakh ke pare
Chaar kadam bas chaar kadam..
Chal do na saath mere.

Bin kuch kahe, bin kuch sune..
Haathon mein haath liye
Chaar kadam bas chaar kadam..
Chal do na saath mere.

Heey... Bin kuch kahe, Bin kuch sune..
Haathon mein haath liye,
Chaar kadam bas chaar kadam..
Chal do na saath mere.

Raahon mein tumko jo dhoop sataye..
Chhaaon bicha denge hum,
Andhere daraye to jaa kar falak pe..
Chand sajaa denge hum
Chhaye udaasi Latife suna kar
Tujhko hansa denge hum

Hanste hansaate yunhi gungunaate...
Chal denge chaar kadam...
Yea Yeaah ... Na... Na.. Nana..
La La La ra....

Tumsa mile jo koi Rehguzar..
Duniya se kaun darey..
Chaar kadam kya saari umar
Chal dungi saath tere..

Bin kuch kahe, Bin kuch sune..
Haathon mein haath liye
Char kadam bas char kadam..
Chal do na saath mere..

Bin kuch kahe, Bin kuch sune..
Haathon mein haath liye..
Char kadam bas char kadam
Chal do na saath mere..

Don't ask my name and address..
Keeping all the customs aside
Four steps, just four steps..
Please walk by my side..

Don't ask my name and address..
Keeping all the customs aside
Four steps, just four steps..
Please walk by my side..

Without saying anything..without listening anything..
Holding my hands in yours..
Four steps just four steps..
Please walk by my side..

Heey.. Without saying anything..without listening anything..
Holding my hands in yours..
Four steps just four steps..
Please walk by my side..

If sunlight bothers you in the path..
I will spread shade..
If darkness scares you then,
I will decorate the moon in the sky..
If you will cry, I will crack jokes,
To make you laugh..

Laughing and singing this way,
I will walk four steps with you..
Yea Yeaah.. na na na na....
La la la..ra

If I will get a companion like you..
Then who fears the world..
Not just four steps, but the entire life
I will walk with you...

Without saying anything..without listening anything..
Holding my hands in yours..
Four steps just four steps..
Please walk by my side..

Without saying anything..without listening anything..
Holding my hands in yours..
Four steps just four steps..
Please walk by my side..


Diner for two

A few days later, Catherine walked into the restaurant room. Amir looked up and was amazed at the beauty that walked in his direction. He quickly stood up and greeted the beauty. Offered her a chair and sat down opposite her. "Finally, the date you hinted at when we first met," Catherine said. "Indeed," Amir replied. The waiter approached and asked what they wanted to drink. Both of them were somewhat nervous.

When the drinks were served, Catherine said, "Amir, what I am about to tell you, I am nervous about. But I'm not going to delay saying it any longer." Amir set his drink on the table and adopted a listening attitude. "Ever since I was a little girl I dreamt of some kind of fairy tale wedding. A handsome prince, a beautiful white dress and so on. I have even had a date in my agenda for years, the date when I hope to get married. It may be a bit childish, but I see that wedding day as a key moment in my life. Ummm… I don't know what else to say."

Amir took his agenda out of his inside pocket and said, "What date may I write down?" "Ummm", Catherine hesitated, but answered "that's 12 July". "Alright", Amir replied, " I add two years from now on, then I come to 12 July 2021 and according to the Norton calendar that is 16.VI.1698 AN". Surprised, Catherine looked at Amir and asked, "1698 AN?". "Yes, dear Catherine, you have chosen a wedding day, I have a schedule. My father taught my brothers and me that the period of courtship should last at least two years. The phase of falling in love, the pink cloud, lasts about a year or a year and a half. Then reality kicks in and the relationship, if it lasts, begins the serious phase. But there is a condition: especially during the phase of infatuation, but preferably until the wedding day, the relationship should not be subverted by becoming too intimate. So: no touching until 16.VI.1698 AN." Catherine was amazed, burning with love and was impressed over the wisdom. Amir waited for her reaction, but let her process what he had just said.

"What wisdom, thank you for that," Catherine responded. "So, if we decide to think of ourselves as a couple from now on, you are going to propose to me in two years and we will get married on 16.VI.1698 AN?" "Yes", Amir replied, "at least if you want it and our relationship endures". "Agreed," said Catherine. They looked into each other's eyes. A moment later, Amir said. "We still have to make a decision." "Oh yeah?", Catherine asked. "Yes, what are we going to eat?", replied Amir. Catherine burst out laughing and responded, "Can I pick something for you?" Amir put the menu, which he had just grabbed, away again. "Go ahead," he said. Not much later, a traditional dish was served, which consisted of dried pilot whale meat, blubber which has been brined, cooked cold potatoes, and dried fish.

After dinner, the couple in love walked from the restaurant to the theatre. They walked side by side, so that their hands touched. That touch was already magical, it became worse when their hands slowly slipped into each other. Hand in hand for the first time. Catherine chatted, while Amir felt like he was on a flying carpet, listening to the sweet sounds of her voice. On a bridge, Amir stopped and Catherine faced Amir with a graceful swing. In the middle of a sentence, she stopped babbling. They looked at each other and slowly their lips approached. The first kiss was clumsy, magical and too short. A cyclist passed by, ringing his bell, a little nervous, Catherine said, "Let's practise this again". Amir smiled and nodded in agreement.

In the theatre, a musical was being performed. Amir did not really pay attention to the musical, he just looked at Catherine. He stared at her like a little schoolboy. He took her in, as if he would never see her again. No detail of her face was missed in his observation. When Catherine turned her head and saw him staring, a frown appeared on her face and she pushed his head so that he was looking at the stage. There, a young couple was singing. They were dancing across the stage, gracefully and simultaneously. Suddenly Amir saw something strange, it was as if Catherine and he were those two young people on the stage. That they were dancing and singing there.


Adarani Transliteration Translated in Common Tongue

पल पल पल पल हर पल हर पल
कैसे कटेगा पल हर पल हर पल
दिल में मची है हलचल
कैसे हटेगा पल, हर पल हर पल

ओ हमसफर लगता है डर
रात कटे ना कभी हो सहर
इस पल में सिमटे उमर
रात कटे ना कभी हो सहर

तू जो है साथ मेरे तो डगर
लगे के जैसे खुबसूरत घर
तू जो है साथ तो यह अंबर
लगे के जैसे साया हो सर पर
तेरे कांधे पे रखकर सर
यूँ ही कट जाये सारी उमर

कल क्या हो किस को खबर
लगता है डर, लगता है डर
इस पल में सिमटे उमर
रात कटे ना कभी हो सेहर

दिल की इतनी सारी बातें
कैसे लिखोगे इस छोटे खत पर
दिल पर टूटा है यह कैसा कहर
तुमको पाकर खोने का है डर
प्यार का यह ढ़ाई आखर
कैसे लिखोगे इस छोटे खत पर

Pal Pal Pal Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Pal Pal Pal Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Dil Dil Dil Dil Me Machi Hain Machi
Machi Hain Hulchul Hulchul Hulchul
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Pal Pal Pal Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal

O Humsafar Lagta Hai Darr Rat Kate Na Kabhi Ho Sehar
Iss Pal Me Simte Umar Rat Kate Na Kabhi Ho Sehar
Tu Jo Hai Sath Mere Toh Dagar Lage Ke Jaise Khubsurat Ghar
Tu Jo Hai Sath Mere Toh Dagar Lage Ke Jaise Khubsurat Ghar
Tu Jo Hai Sath Toh Yeh Ambar Lage Ke Jaise Saya Ho Sar Par
Tere Kandhe Par Rakhkar Sar Yun Hi Katt Jaye Sari Umar
Pal Pal Pal Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal

Kal Kya Ho Kisko Khabar Lagta Hai Darr Lagta Hai Darr
Iss Pal Me Simte Umar Rat Kate Naa Kabhi Ho Sehar
Achchha Batao

Dil Ki Itni Sari Baate Kaise Likhoge Is Chhote Khat Par
Dil Ki Itni Sari Baate Kaise Likhoge Is Chhote Khat Par
Dil Par Tuta Hai Yeh Kaisa Kehar Tumko Paakar Khone Kaa Hai Darr
Pyar Kaa Yeh Dhaiya Ghar Kaise Likhoge Iss Chhote Khat Par

Pal Pal Pal Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Pal Pal Pal Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Dil Dil Dil Dil Me Machi Hain Machi
Machi Hain Hulchul Hulchul Hulchul
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal
Kaise Katega Pal Har Pal Har Pal

Each and every moment
How will each and every moment pass
Each and every moment
How will each and every moment pass
In the heart there is
In the heart there is a bustle
How will each and every moment pass
How will each and every moment pass
Each and every moment
How will each and every moment pass

O my companion, I feel scared
I hope this night never ends
I hope my whole life passes in this moment
I hope this night never ends
If you're there with me
Then the path feels like a beautiful house
If you're there with me
Then the path feels like a beautiful house
If you're there with me
Then this sky feels like a shade over my head
Keeping my head on your shoulder
I hope my whole life passes like this

Each and every moment
How will each and every moment pass

Who knows what will happen tomorrow
I feel scared, I feel scared
I hope my whole life passes in this moment
I hope this night never ends

Ok, tell me
So many things of the heart
How will you write on such a small letter
So many things of the heart
How will you write on such a small letter
There is such a havoc in my heart
I'm scared of losing you after attaining you
The two and a half words of love
How will you write on such a small letter

Each and every moment
How will each and every moment pass
Each and every moment
How will each and every moment pass
In the heart there is
In the heart there is a bustle
How will each and every moment pass
How will each and every moment pass


Your country, my country

For a time, periods alternated between Amir's visits in Craitland and living separately in different time zones. When Amir was in the Khanate or Jabal al-Mada' and Catherine was in Craitland, the time difference was 6.5 hours. Direct contact was often brief, but to maintain valuable contact, they sent each other letters. Catherine was overjoyed when a new letter from Amir arrived. She could read something about his life, his feelings and his expectations for the future. She poured out her heart in her letters to Amir. At the piano, she sang of her love:

Oh where would i be
Without this joy inside of me
It makes me want to come alive
It makes me want to fly into the sky
Oh where would i be?
If i didn’t have you next to me?
Oh where would i be?
Oh where, oh where? ohhhh, where…

Then the time came for Catherine to travel to Çakaristan. Because of the unrest in Jingdao, Amir thought it better to travel via Hurmu. Catherine suggested not to fly from there to Agra, but to travel by land and thus to get acquainted with Amir's homeland.

She flew from Osĵätoņ to Ghawlama, where Amir was waiting for her. They were very happy to see each other again, and they took a taxi to a hotel. There Amir had booked two rooms. They had a romantic dinner, enjoying the Hurmu cuisine. The next day they travelled by train to Çakaristan. In the train Amir told her her wish list. Riding a riksa, sailing on Lake Jodha and sitting on the roof of a bus. Amir laughed and said it had been arranged. So they travelled by train to Suryapur. Amir hired an all-terrain vehicle and drove via Akharot to Ambarganj. There Catherine got a crash course in rickshaw driving.

They hired a riksa and drove to Akbarabad. There they visited the Çakari Clock Tower. That tower stands exactly at the intersection of the Prime Meridian and a straight line east from the Red Fortress in Agra. Then they drove to Maulikpur. Catherine was fascinated by the large Craittemple, the spice market and the colourful fabrics of the sari, the traditional clothing. They left by bus eastwards, through the wide country. They rode along on the roof of a bus. In Khodapatnam, they visited the palace island, after which they travelled by boat to Keruliya. They travelled by steam train via Ghodabad and Akyar to Agra. A black car with Sultanic flags pulled up. In it Amir and Catherine were driven to the Red Fortress.

Adarani Transliteration Translated in Common Tongue

ओ.. अंबर हेठाँ धरती वसदी
एथे हर रुत हँसदी हो..
किन्ना सोणा देस है मेरा
देस है मेरा, देस है मेरा
किन्ना सोणा देस है मेरा
देस है मेरा, देस है मेरा
देस है मेरा
धरती सुनहरी अंबर नीला हो..
धरती सुनहरी अंबर नीला
हर मौसम रंगीला
ऐसा देस है मेरा
हो.. ऐसा देस है मेरा
ऐसा देस है मेरा
हाँ.. ऐसा देस है मेरा

बोले पपीहा कोयल गाये..
बोले पपीहा कोयल गाये
सावन घिर के आये
ऐसा देस है मेरा
हो.. ऐसा देस है मेरा
ऐसा देस है मेरा
हाँ.. ऐसा देस है मेरा

कोठे ते का बोले ओये
चिट्ठी मेरे माहिए दी
विच आने दा वि ना बोले ओये
चिट्ठी मेरे माहिए दी

गेंहू के खेतों में कंघी जो करे हवाएं
रंग-बिरंगी कितनी चुनरियाँ उड़-उड़ जाएं
पनघट पर पनहारन जब गगरी भरने आये
मधुर-मधुर तानों में कहीं बंसी कोई बजाए, लो सुन लो
क़दम-क़दम पे है मिल जानी..
क़दम-क़दम पे है मिल जानी कोई प्रेम कहानी

ऐसा देस है मेरा
हो.. ऐसा देस है मेरा
ऐसा देस है मेरा
हाँ.. ऐसा देस है मेरा

ओ..मेरी जुगनी दे धागे बांधे
जुगनी ओस दे मूंह तो फब्बेय
जीनु साड इश्क दी लग्गे
ओये सानेरया दा लेंदी है
वीर मेरेया जुगनी कहंदी है
ओ नाम सही पा लेंदी है
ओ दिल कड़ लिता ई जींद मेरिये

बाप के कंधे चढ़ के जहाँ बच्चे देखे मेले
मेलों में नट के तमाशे, कुल्फ़ी के चाट के ठेले
कहीं मिलती मीठी गोली, कहीं चूरन की है पुड़िया
भोले-भोले बच्चे हैं, जैसे गुड्डे और गुड़िया
और इनको रोज़ सुनाये दादी नानी हो..
रोज़ सुनाये दादी नानी
इक परियों की कहानी

ऐसा देस है मेरा
हो.. ऐसा देस है मेरा
ऐसा देस है मेरा
हाँ.. ऐसा देस है मेरा

सदके सदके जांदी है मुटियारे नि
कंदा चुभा फिर पैर बांकी नारे नि
ओये नि अडिये कंदा चुभा फिर पैर बांकी नारे नि
कौन कड़े तेरा कन्दरा मुटियारे नि
कौन सहे तेरी पीड बांकिये नारे नि
ओये नि अडिये कौन सहे तेरी पीड बांकिये नारे नि

हो.. मेरे देस में मेहमानों को भगवान कहा जाता है
वो यहीं का हो जाता है, जो कहीं से भी आता है

आ.. तेरे देस को मैंने देखा, तेरे देस को मैंने जाना
आ.. तेरे देस को मैंने देखा, तेरे देस को मैंने जाना
जाने क्यूँ ये लगता है, मुझको जाना पहचाना
यहाँ भी वही शाम है, वही सवेरा ओ..
वही शाम है, वही सवेरा
ऐसा ही देस है मेरा जैसा देस है तेरा
वैसा देस है तेरा हाँ.. जैसा देस है तेरा

ऐसा देस है मेरा हो..
जैसा देस है तेरा
ऐसा देस है मेरा
हाँ.. जैसा देस है तेरा
ऐसा देस है मेरा हाँ..
वैसा देस है तेरा

Ambar hethhaan dharti vasdi
Ethe har rut hasdi ho
Kinna sona des hai mera
Des hai mera des hai mera
Kinna sona des hai mera
Des hai mera des hai mera
Des hai mera

Dharti sunehri ambar neela ho
Dharti sunehri ambar
Har mausam rangeela
Aisa des hai mera ho
Aisa des hai mera
Aisa des hai mera
Haan aisa des hai mera
Bole papiha koyal gaaye…
Bole papiha koyal gaaye
Saawan ghir ke aaye
Aisa des hai mera ho
Aisa des hai mera
Aisa des hai mera
Haan aisa des hai mera
Oh kothhe te kaan bole
Aayi chithhi mere maahiye di
Vich aane da vi na bole
Aayi chithhi mere maahiye di
Genhoo ke kheton mein
Kanghi jo kare hawaayein
Rang birangi kitni
Chunariyaan ud ud jaayein
Panghat par panhaaran
Jab gagri bharne aaye
Madhur madhur taanon mein
Kahin bansi koyi bajaaye lo sun lo
Qadam qadam pe hai mil jaani
Qadam qadam pe hai mil
Jaani koyi prem kahaani
Aisa des hai mera ho
Aisa des hai mera
Aisa des hai mera haan
Aisa des hai mera

Oh meri jugni de dhaage
Pakke jugni os de moonh toh fabbe
Jinu sat ishq di lagge
Oy saanyi mereya oh jugni
Veer mereya jugni kendi
Aye oh naam saayin da lendi aye
Hoy hoy hoy hoy hoy hoy hoy
Oh dil kad litaa ee jind meriye

Baap ke kandhe chadh ke
Jahaan bachche dekhe mele
Melon mein nach ke tamaashe
Kulfi ke chaat ke thhele
Kahin milti meethhi goli
Kahin chooran ki hai pudiya
Bhole bhole bachche hain
Jaise gudde aur gudiya
Aur inko roz sunaaye daadi naani ho
Roz sunaaye daadi naani
Ik pariyon ki kahaani
Aisa des hai mera ho
Aisa des hai mera
Aisa des hai mera haan
Aisa des hai mera

Sadke sadke jaandi
Aaye mutiyaare ni
Kanda chuba tere
Pair baankiye naare ni
Oy ni adiye kanda chuba
Tere pair baankiye naare ni
Kaun kade tera kaandra mutiyaare ni
Kaun sahe teri peed baankiye naare ni
Oy ni adiye kaun sahe
Teri peed baankiye naare ni
Ho ho ho ho ho ho ho
Mere des mein mehmaanon
Ko bhagwaan kaha jaata hai
Woh yahin ka ho jaata hai
Jo kahin se bhi aata hai
Aa aa aa aa
Tere des ko maine dekha
Tere des ko maine jaana
Aa…aa…aa…
Tere des ko maine dekha
Tere des ko maine jaana
Jaane kyun ye lagta hai
Mujhko jaana pehchaana
Yahaan bhi wahin shaam hai
Wahin savera… oh
Wahi shaam hai wahin savera
Aisa hi des hai mera
Jaisa des hai tera
Waisa des hai tera
Haan jaisa des hai tera

Aisa des hai mera ho
Jaisa des hai tera
Aisa des hai mera haan
Jaisa des hai tera
Aisa des hai mera haan
Waisa des hai mera.

Below the sky lies the earth
Here every season smiles
My country is so beautiful
My country, my country
My country is so beautiful
My country, my country
My country

The earth is golden, the skies are blue
The earth is golden, the skies are blue
Every season is colourful
Such is my country ... hey
Such is my country
Such is my country ... yes
Such is my country
The cuckooo talks and the koel sings
The cuckooo talks and the koel sings
Then the monsoon clouds arrive
Such is my country ... hey
Such is my country
Such is my country ... yes
Such is my country

A crow is calling on my terrace
A letter from my lover has come
And there will surely be a mention of me
A letter from my lover has come

In the fields of wheat
The winds move like a comb
So many colourful
Scarves are flying around
On the river banks when women come
To fill their pots
Playing some pleasant tunes
Is someone with a flute
So listen
On every step you'll find
On every step you'll find
Some love story

Such is my country ... hey
Such is my country
Such is my country ... yes
Such is my country

My firefly like girl is strong
She is very choosy
She favours the one in love
My firefly like girl, oh God
My girl calls me a braveheart
She takes the name of God
Hey ... hey ... hey!
Hey ... hey ... hey!
Now you've made me happy

On top of the shoulders of their father
Where the kids go see the fairs
There are many shows in the fair
And stalls of ice-cream
Somewhere you get sweet candy
Somewhere you get savoury snacks
These children are innocent
Just like dolls
For them
Everyday their grandparents recite
Everyday their grandparents recite
Tales about fairies

Such is my country ... hey
Such is my country
Such is my country ... yes
Such is my country

Hurry up you well dressed woman
A thorn has pricked your beloved's feet
Oh dear
A thorn has pricked your beloved's feet
Who will be the one to remove the thorn
Who will be the one to endure his pain
Oh dear
Who will be the one to endure his pain

Guests in my country
Are called as God
He becomes a part of here
Irrespective of where he comes from
Aa ... aa ... aa
I've seen your country
I've learnt about your country
Aa ... aa ... aa
I've seen your country
I've learnt about your country
I don't know why but
It looks familiar to me
Here the evenings and mornings are same
The evenings and mornings are same

Such is my country
Just like your country
Just like your country ... yes
Just like your country

Such is my country ... hey
Just like your country
Such is my country ... yes
Just like your country
Such is my country ... yes
Just like my country


A few days later, Amir and Catherine sat in the stands of the Akbar Stadium. The friendly football match between Craitland and Çakaristan. Demonstrating, they each wore a scarf of their own homeland, but sat next to each other on the stands. The security around the stadium, the Craitish guests and the football team had been tightened considerably because of the terrorist attacks in Fatehpur and Manbai. Fortunately, the atmosphere in the stadium was very friendly.

The national anthems of both nations resounded through the stadium, after which the kick-off took place. The Çakari spectators and Amir were in great festive mood when Cyavana Kapil scored a goal as early as the third minute. The Craitish were in shock. As one of the best teams on Micras, it was shocking for Craitland to fall behind so soon. The Çakari euphoria faded as the match progressed. The final score of 3 - 1 for Craitland was a clear loss, but not humiliating. Amir had some difficulty in coming to terms with the loss, which Catherine teased him about. Akbar had later told him that winning over Craitland would be a miracle of god, to which Amir acidly replied, "Would the great Craitgod let Craitland lose?".


Oriental wedding

After a few days in Agra, the couple travelled to Kuriabad. In Kuriabad, Amir told about the Sylvanian National Awakening. After all, he had been in command when this city was captured. Amir had not been to this city since the conquest, so he was curious to see how it was rebuilt. A plaque commemorating this event is placed on the façade of the café where he found and captured the local commander of the Krasnocorian armed forces. Above the historical description, Amir's quote is written: "By Craitgod, our mission has divine support!" Both Catherine and Amir were impressed.

That evening, Catherine took Amir to the hills just outside the city. It was the place where Amir had stood years earlier to view the city. There Amir went down on his knee in front of Catherine and asked her to marry him. Catherine was surprised, not that he would ask her once, but the place and the moment surprised her. She said wholeheartedly, "yes!". Amir stood up again and danced with Catherine for joy. After they went out for dinner, they called Catherine's parent. Her parents already knew of Amir's intention to ask Catherine to marry him. But their joy was no less.

The next day they sailed to Kendall Isle by boat. They arrived in Vudin. Before long, the people realised that their Khan was back. The people ran out to see their Khan. They were surprised to see a woman by his side. It was not long before the local media reported on the arrival of the Khan and the woman by his side. Until now, their travels through the country had been relatively anonymous. They were mostly unrecognised. And if they were recognised, it was only for a few. But now, within the Khanate Jabal al-Mada', that anonymity was completely over.

The engaged couple started a tour visiting at least all the provinces of the Khanate. In villages and towns they were welcomed enthusiastically and so Catherine got to know her new homeland. Amir had to admit that he was also gaining many new experiences. At the foot of Jabal al-Mada', Amir had a country house built. From the living room there was a panoramic view of the mountain. The mountain Amir had conquered before. There was a telescope viewer in the room, pointed at the mountain. He let Catherine look through the telescope. Luckily, the weather was clear, so she could see the flag flying on the top of the mountain. That was the flan he had planted there himself.

In the following months, preparations were made for the wedding. More and more wedding guests arrived in Çatalyokuş. Among them were the Sultan and Sultana with their three children. The King and Queen of Craitland with the parents of the bride. The Rani Reejent of Korhalistan with her son. The Emir and Emira of Arbor. The King and Queen of Batavia. The whole city had turned into a fortress in celebration.

Sunrise, 22.VI.1698 AN, the big day. The wedding day of Amir and Catherine. The bride was picked up by the groom from the Apollonian Oriental Hotel. The Pellegrino family had gathered to witness the moment. The groom was received in the grand staircase, where the bride appeared at the top of the stairs. With music, the bride descended the stairs. The groom was enchanted by the beauty of his bride. He saw only her; no one else was in sight. He said to her that every word would fail to describe her beauty. Catherine became shy.

Together they walked out of the hotel. Outside, the convertible was ready. It took a while before the procession was complete. Then a complete collision of decorated white cars was formed, driving slowly towards the Khanate Palace. Along the road people stood waving. Flags fluttered merrily in the wind. Along the route, flower boxes had been placed instead of barricades. This decorated the streets even more. At the palace, the guard of honour was ready. But also a group of seven men, dressed in white jellabiyas and Çakari-green turbans. They had drums with them and on the arrival of the bride and groom they began to play music. The cabriolet with the bride and groom was already driving slowly, but now with the dancing and drumming men, the car seemed almost impossible to move. The women at the entrance to the palace made an ululation.

All the wedding guests had gathered in the main hall of the palace. There, the ceremony was held to bind Amir and Catherine together. To symbolise this, a cord was wrapped around their arms. They pronounced their vows and the marriage contract was signed. Now that the formal part of the wedding was over, Amir and Catherine were relieved. Happily, they looked at each other as the music began:


The Gift of Love

In the great Crait temple in Çatalyokuş, Amir sat meditating. Scholars sat around him, waiting patiently for the moment when they could ask Amir a question. Cautiously one of them asked, "Your Highness, what have you found in Craitland?" Amir smiled, seemed to think for a moment and began to tell. "In Craitland, there is little belief in a higher power. There is much esteem for their king, but no invisible deity guides them. Now I am not saying that the great Craitgod does not exist, but in Craitland there is little sign of him. A simple stone monument is the only visible sign of the existence of the great Craitgod."

"It was at the top of Mount Horn that I discovered that the true purpose of the great Craitgod does not lie in physical monuments. I advise everyone to go on a pilgrimage, but not because of the monument. It is about awareness. Asking the question, 'what counts in this life?' Regardless of what you believe, in whom or not. There is one thing that is common."

"The discovery on top of the mountain, was confirmed at the bottom of the mountain. And you have been witnesses to its public declaration." The scholars did not understand what Amir meant. A simple old man, who had heard everything but was not a scholar, smiled. "Your highness, it is the gift of love." "Correct," Amir replied.