HIM. Lyrics Meaning by Karan Aujla
“HIM.” by Karan Aujla is a powerful anthem of unrequited love, masculine pride, and the intoxicating obsession that comes with deep infatuation. The song narrates the story of a man, a self-proclaimed “velli” or ruffian with a soft heart, who has sacrificed his old ways and other potential relationships for a woman who remains indifferent to his advances.
He lays bare his vulnerability, frustration, and unwavering confidence in his own worth, creating a complex emotional tapestry that is both a heartfelt plea and a bold declaration of self-value. In this article, we explore the meaning of this song, breaking down its metaphors and emotions.
Introduction to the Song
Released on August 22, 2025, “HIM.” is the fifth track on Karan Aujla’s groundbreaking album, P-POP CULTURE. The song quickly became a fan favorite, celebrated for its raw lyrical honesty, signature Aujla flow, and a beat that merges traditional Punjabi sounds with contemporary hip-hop elements. “HIM.” is more than just a song; it’s a narrative that captures a very specific, yet universally understood, emotional conflict. It explores the psyche of a modern Punjabi man who is caught between traditional expectations of masculinity and the overwhelming vulnerability of being in love. The track showcases Aujla’s masterful ability to tell a vivid story, painting a picture of a lover who is simultaneously willing to fight for his love and ready to walk away with his head held high. The title itself, “HIM.”, is a bold and direct reference to the protagonist’s self-perception—he sees himself as the ultimate prize, the one she will regret losing.
The song’s structure, with its recurring, hypnotic chorus, emphasizes the cyclical nature of the protagonist’s thoughts. He is stuck in a loop of pursuing her, observing others who pursue him, and grappling with the “saroor” or intoxication of his feelings. The production complements this theme perfectly, with an energetic rhythm that drives the narrative forward while underlying synth melodies add a layer of emotional depth and melancholy. As part of the P-POP CULTURE album, “HIM.” solidifies Aujla’s reputation as a cultural commentator, an artist who doesn’t just make music but also holds up a mirror to the complexities of love, ego, and identity in the 21st century. It’s a track that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the sting of one-sided love while fiercely believing in their own irreplaceability.
Central Theme & Message
The central theme of “HIM.” is the tumultuous conflict between passionate, unreciprocated love and an unshakeable sense of self-worth. Karan Aujla delves into the mind of a man who has invested everything into the pursuit of one woman. He has broken other hearts (“Tere ikk dil pichhe kinne dil torde”) and altered his lifestyle (“chaabi shaak mod te”) for her, yet he is met with indifference and “nakhre” (airs). This rejection fuels the song’s core tension. On one hand, he is deeply vulnerable, constantly following her and intoxicated by his love (“Eh bibba tere pyaar da saroor ae”). On the other hand, his pride and ego are prominent. He reminds her of his own desirability, pointing out the women who line up for him (“Aun mitran de pichhe, khadiyan-khadiyan”) and confidently predicting that she will regret her choice (“tainu dassi janna pachtaayengi”).
The overarching message is a powerful statement on self-respect in the face of rejection. While the protagonist is clearly hurt, he refuses to be a victim. He gives her an ultimatum, suggesting he won’t wait forever and will not beg for her attention (“asin vi ni puchhna dubare”). The song’s narrative arc moves from a declaration of his sacrifices to a frustrated confrontation, and finally, to a place of dignified resignation. He concludes that if their union is not meant to be in this life, perhaps it will happen in the next, or he will find love with the “pariyan” (angels) in heaven. This final thought, tinged with sarcasm and melancholy, encapsulates the song’s message: love is a powerful, often maddening force, but it should not come at the cost of one’s own identity and self-worth. Aujla communicates that it’s okay to be vulnerable and to love deeply, but it is equally important to recognize when to walk away, confident in the knowledge of what you bring to the table.
Verse-by-Verse Meaning
Verse 1
Tere ikk dil pichhe kinne dil torde
Ni aish tu karegi, pind pacchi kile road te
Ni nazran ghuma ke ni tu ikk vaari takkya
Ni tere pichhe gabru ne chaabi shaak mod te
Ni velli hunde aenne vi ni maade
Eh nazran karan dariyan-dariya
In the opening verse, Aujla immediately establishes the depth of his character’s commitment and the sacrifices made. “Tere ikk dil pichhe kinne dil torde” translates to “For your one heart, I have broken so many others.” This line reveals his singular focus on her, suggesting he has rejected other admirers or ended past relationships for her sake. He then paints a picture of the luxurious and stable life he can offer her: “Ni aish tu karegi, pind pacchi kile road te,” meaning “You will live in luxury, in the village with 25 acres of land on the road.” In Punjabi culture, land ownership, especially a large plot on a main road, is a significant status symbol, representing wealth and security.
He recalls the moment his infatuation began: “Ni nazran ghuma ke ni tu ikk vaari takkya” (“You just glanced around and looked at me once”). This single, seemingly casual glance was enough to completely captivate him. As a result, “Ni tere pichhe gabru ne chaabi shaak mod te,” which means “For you, this young man has turned his keys from the lock.” This is a powerful metaphor for changing his ways. The “chaabi shaak” (keys in the lock) could symbolize his old lifestyle—perhaps a life of wandering, fighting, or being a player. Turning the key signifies him locking that part of his life away for her. He concludes by challenging the stereotype of a “velli” (a ruffian or troublemaker), stating they aren’t all bad (“Ni velli hunde aenne vi ni maade”). He claims that it’s her captivating eyes (“nazran”) that make even tough guys like him as gentle as flowing rivers (“dariya-dariya”), highlighting her profound effect on him.
Verse 2
Ni asin vi ni puchhna dubare
Sanu lagda ae, mitran nu marenge kuware tu
Ni itthe saada dil khush ho jau
Pachhon langu aa gali chon, aaja chadhiya chaubare tu
Main odo bibba chhadd daun laraiyaan
Jadon teriyan mere naal, sachi akhan ladiyaan
The second verse marks a shift in tone from romantic declaration to frustrated ultimatum. He begins with a statement of pride: “Ni asin vi ni puchhna dubare” (“I won’t ask you again”). He is drawing a line, indicating that his patience is wearing thin. He follows this with a dramatic, almost melancholic prediction: “Sanu lagda ae, mitran nu marenge kuware tu” (“I feel like you will be the death of me, unmarried”). This is a common Punjabi expression used to convey deep frustration in love, implying that her refusal to accept him will lead him to remain a bachelor forever.
Despite this frustration, his desire for her remains simple and pure. He imagines a scenario that would make his heart content: “Ni itthe saada dil khush ho jau, Pachhon langu aa gali chon, aaja chadhiya chaubare tu” (“My heart will become happy right here, when I pass through your street from the west, just come up to your rooftop terrace”). This isn’t a grand request; he just wants a sign of acknowledgment from her, a simple glimpse as he passes by her house. This small gesture would mean the world to him. He then makes a significant promise: “Main odo bibba chhadd daun laraiyaan, Jadon teriyan mere naal, sachi akhan ladiyaan” (“I will give up all my fights, the moment your eyes truly meet mine”). This line connects back to his “velli” persona. The “laraiyaan” (fights) could be literal or metaphorical battles. He is essentially saying that her love and acceptance would bring him peace and put an end to all his conflicts.
Verse 3
Ni kinnian main tere pichhe moriyan ni
Taan vi tere rahindiyan ne, matthe te tiodiyan
Ni aenne vi ni nakhre karide tainu
Tainu bibba baddiyan te, sanu vi ni thodian
Ni tainu jaane-dilon yaar chahunde
Dilan jitt na laina, aiven dhadlle je paaunde ni
Tu aaj keh de haiga ae koi hor
Mainu sau lagge teri, tainu kal to bulaaunde ni
Ni akhan de patte aa rakhne
Te tu sanu hi sikhave, addiyan-addiyan
In this verse, his exasperation becomes more pronounced. He questions her perpetual displeasure: “Ni kinnian main tere pichhe moriyan ni, Taan vi tere rahindiyan ne, matthe te tiodiyan” (“How many people have I turned away for you, yet you always have a frown on your forehead”). He feels his efforts are going unnoticed and unappreciated. He then delivers a line that balances his plea with his pride: “Ni aenne vi ni nakhre karide tainu, Tainu bibba baddiyan te, sanu vi ni thodian” (“You shouldn’t have so many airs; if you have many admirers, I don’t have a shortage either”). This is a classic Aujla-style boast, reminding her that he is also highly sought after.
He affirms the sincerity of his feelings, stating, “Ni tainu jaane-dilon yaar chahunde” (“This friend wants you with his life and soul”). He contrasts his genuine love with the superficial efforts of others who might try to win hearts through force or trickery (“Dilan jitt na laina, aiven dhadlle je paaunde ni”). At his breaking point, he asks for clarity: “Tu aaj keh de haiga ae koi hor, Mainu sau lagge teri, tainu kal to bulaaunde ni” (“Tell me today if there is someone else, I swear on you, I won’t call you from tomorrow”). This is his final plea for honesty. He would rather face a painful truth than continue in uncertainty. He ends the verse with a sharp observation about her stubbornness, accusing her of being blind to his love and trying to teach him about being difficult (“Ni akhan de patte aa rakhne, Te tu sanu hi sikhave, addiyan-addiyan”).
Verse 4
Ni tainu dassi janna pachtaayengi
Tu mile na mile, ni gaane Aujle de gaayengi
Ni jera, tere kho gaya khayaalan vich
Saade jiha yaar, kithon labh ke lai aayengi?
Ni lokan de taan khirge bageeche
Saale, saade khore beriyan nu ber kadon honge?
Ni eh taan kitte banani ni gall
Rabb sukh rakhe, saade mel fer kade honge
Ni swargan ch lai lain ge ne yaare
Ni main suneya ni othe ne, pariyan-pariyan
The final verse transitions to a tone of confident resignation and future prediction. He boldly tells her, “Ni tainu dassi janna pachtaayengi” (“I am telling you, you will regret this”). His confidence in his own value is absolute. He cleverly inserts his own identity as an artist into the narrative: “Tu mile na mile, ni gaane Aujle de gaayengi” (“Whether you become mine or not, you will sing Aujla’s songs”). This is a meta-reference, suggesting his music will be so pervasive and relevant to her future experiences of love and loss that she won’t be able to escape his memory. He reinforces this by asking, “Saade jiha yaar, kithon labh ke lai aayengi?” (“Where will you find a lover like me?”).
He then uses a poignant metaphor to express his own misfortune in love: “Ni lokan de taan khirge bageeche, Saale, saade khore beriyan nu ber kadon honge?” (“Other people’s gardens have bloomed, but who knows when my berry trees will finally bear fruit?”). This beautiful imagery contrasts his romantic stagnation with the flourishing love lives of others. Seeing no hope, he concludes that their union isn’t destined to happen in this life: “Ni eh taan kitte banani ni gall, Rabb sukh rakhe, saade mel fer kade honge” (“This isn’t going to work out; may God keep you well, perhaps we will meet again someday”). The song ends on a darkly humorous and hyperbolic note. He resigns himself to finding love in the afterlife: “Ni swargan ch lai lain ge ne yaare, Ni main suneya ni othe ne, pariyan-pariyan” (“My friends will find me a match in heaven; I’ve heard there are fairies/angels there”). This final line is a classic defense mechanism—using humor to mask the deep hurt of rejection.
Emotional Tone & Mood
The emotional tone of “HIM.” is a complex and dynamic blend of bravado, vulnerability, and frustration. The song operates on a constant pendulum swing between the confident swagger of a man who knows his worth and the raw, pleading heart of a spurned lover. The mood is predominantly energetic and assertive, driven by a powerful beat and Aujla’s commanding vocal delivery. This energy reflects the protagonist’s outward persona—the tough “gabru” who is in control. This is the man who boasts about the women waiting for him and confidently predicts his ex-lover’s future regret.
However, beneath this polished surface of bravado lies a deep well of vulnerability and emotional turmoil. The lyrics reveal moments of pure, unfiltered longing, such as when he describes how a single glance from her changed his entire world or when he admits that all his “fights” would cease if she would just truly look at him. This vulnerability creates a powerful emotional counterpoint to his pride. The frustration is palpable, especially in the third verse, where his tone becomes more confrontational as he questions her constant frowns and challenges her to be honest. The final verse settles into a mood of melancholic resignation, a bittersweet acceptance of his fate, masked by a layer of cynical humor about finding love in heaven. This emotional complexity is what makes “HIM.” so compelling; it’s not just a song about love, but a raw portrait of the internal chaos that love can create.
Artist’s Perspective / Backstory
While Karan Aujla has not given a specific line-by-line breakdown of “HIM.”, the song fits perfectly within his established artistic persona and the narrative universe of his P-POP CULTURE album. Aujla has built his career on a foundation of authentic, unfiltered storytelling that often blurs the line between his personal experiences and the characters he creates. In songs like “HIM.”, he embodies the archetype of the modern Punjabi “Jatt”—a figure who is deeply connected to his roots, proud, and often perceived as aggressive or overly masculine (“velli”), but who also possesses a profound capacity for love, loyalty, and emotional depth.
The creation of “HIM.” can be seen as Aujla’s commentary on the complexities of modern dating, where vulnerability is often mistaken for weakness. The protagonist of the song is a reflection of many young men who are expected to be strong and unyielding but are privately battling the emotional highs and lows of love. The album P-POP CULTURE, released in the summer of 2025, was lauded as a defining moment for the genre, and “HIM.” serves as one of its emotional cornerstones. The track is a vehicle for Aujla to explore the internal monologue of his character. He isn’t just speaking to the woman in the song; he is speaking to a culture that often misunderstands the men it raises. Through the lyrics, Aujla seems to be saying that behind the bravado and the boasts, there is a man who is willing to change, to sacrifice, and to love deeply, if only he is given a chance. The song is a masterclass in character study, reflecting Aujla’s keen observation of the human condition.
Real-Life Events or Facts Related to the Song
Although the narrative of “HIM.” is a specific, character-driven story, it is deeply rooted in verifiable cultural realities of modern Punjab, which adds a layer of authenticity to the fictional tale. The release of the album P-POP CULTURE on August 22, 2025, was a significant event in the Punjabi music industry, marking a new era of lyrical complexity and genre-bending production that Aujla himself championed. “HIM.” became an anthem because it tapped into real, everyday socio-cultural dynamics.
The reference to “pind pacchi kile road te” (25 acres of land on the road in the village) is a direct reflection of the socio-economic aspirations in Punjab. Land ownership remains a primary indicator of status and stability, and offering this to a potential partner is seen as the ultimate promise of a secure and prosperous future. Furthermore, the concept of the “velli” is a recurring trope in Punjabi media and culture. This character—the lovable rogue or the ruffian with a code of honor—is a figure that many young men identify with. Aujla’s lyrics (“velli hunde aenne vi ni maade”) serve as a direct address to this stereotype, attempting to humanize a figure that is often one-dimensionally portrayed. The song captures the real-world tension between maintaining a tough exterior and navigating the vulnerable, often confusing, landscape of modern romance. The emotions of unrequited love, the frustration of mixed signals, and the struggle to protect one’s ego are universal, but Aujla frames them within a distinctly Punjabi cultural context that feels immediate and real to his audience.
Metaphors & Symbolism
Karan Aujla is a master of lyrical imagery, and “HIM.” is rich with metaphors and symbols that deepen its emotional impact. These literary devices elevate the song from a simple story to a poignant piece of poetry.
- “Chaabi Shaak Mod Te” (Turning the Key in the Lock): This is perhaps the most significant metaphor in the song. It symbolizes a profound life change. The “lock” represents his old ways—a life of recklessness, fighting, or perhaps being emotionally unavailable. By turning the key “for her,” he is locking that part of himself away, signifying a conscious decision to become a better man, a man worthy of her love. It’s a powerful symbol of commitment and personal transformation driven by love.
- “Akhan Chadhiyaan-Chadhiyaan” (Intoxicated Eyes): This phrase has a brilliant dual meaning. On the surface, he is telling her that her eyes look “chadhiyaan,” or intoxicated, as if she is under some influence. However, the deeper meaning is that he is the one who is intoxicated—by his love for her. His “pyaar da saroor” (the intoxication of his love) is so strong that it colors his perception of her, making her appear as if she is in a daze. This symbolizes how love can alter our reality and perception.
- Gardens vs. Berry Trees (“Lokan de taan khirge bageeche… saade khore beriyan nu ber kadon honge?”): This is the most poetic metaphor in the song. He compares the successful love lives of others to blooming gardens (“khirge bageeche”), a symbol of beauty, fruition, and happiness. In stark contrast, he describes his own romantic prospects as a berry tree (“beriyan”) that has yet to bear fruit (“ber”). This imagery powerfully conveys his sense of being left behind and his yearning for his own love to finally come to fruition. The choice of a berry tree, which can be thorny and takes time to mature, adds another layer of meaning about the difficult and painful nature of his wait.
- Heaven and Angels (“Swargan ch… pariyan-pariyan”): The closing lines about finding love with angels (“pariyan”) in heaven (“swargan”) is a form of hyperbole and a coping mechanism. It’s a symbolic retreat from the pain of earthly rejection. By saying he’ll find love in the afterlife, he is simultaneously admitting defeat in his current pursuit and reasserting his desirability on a cosmic scale. It’s a sarcastic, self-deprecating, and yet prideful way to end his plea, symbolizing his ultimate decision to move on, even if it means moving on from life itself to find peace. This final symbol encapsulates the song’s blend of heartbreak and unyielding ego.
FAQs
Question 1: What does the phrase “pind pacchi kile road te” signify in the song?
Answer 1: This phrase translates to “in the village, 25 acres of land on the road.” In the context of Punjabi culture, this is a symbol of immense wealth, stability, and high social status. By saying this, the protagonist is promising the woman a life of luxury and security, highlighting what he can offer her materially.
Question 2: Who is the “gabru” Karan Aujla refers to?
Answer 2: “Gabru” is a Punjabi term for a young, strong man. In the song, Karan Aujla uses it to refer to the protagonist (himself, in the character he’s playing). It emphasizes his youth, masculinity, and pride.
Question 3: What is the meaning behind “chaabi shaak mod te”?
Answer 3: This is a metaphor for a significant life change. It literally means “turned the key from the lock.” Symbolically, it means that for her, he has locked away his old, reckless lifestyle and changed his ways to become a more settled and committed person.
Question 4: Why does the protagonist call himself a “velli”?
Answer 4: A “velli” is a ruffian or a troublemaker. He uses this term to describe his reputation but immediately follows it by saying they “aren’t so bad” (“aenne vi ni maade”). He is acknowledging his tough exterior but arguing that his love for her has softened him, challenging her preconceived notions about him.
Question 5: What is the significance of the chorus “Ni asin aayiye tere pichhe-pichhe”?
Answer 5: This line, meaning “I keep coming after you,” establishes the central theme of his relentless pursuit. The repetition in the chorus emphasizes the obsessive and cyclical nature of his infatuation, showing that despite everything, he is still drawn to follow her.
Question 6: What does “bibba tere pyaar da saroor ae” imply?
Answer 6: It translates to “This is the intoxication of your love.” “Saroor” means a state of being intoxicated or high. This line implies that his feelings for her are so overwhelmingly powerful that they affect him like a drug, influencing his thoughts and actions.
Question 7: Why does he say her eyes look “chadhiyaan-chadhiyaan”?
Answer 7: This phrase, meaning her eyes look “intoxicated” or “heavy,” has a dual interpretation. Either he is observing that she seems aloof and in a daze, or, more likely, he is projecting his own intoxicated state of love onto her, making her appear this way in his eyes.
Question 8: What is the meaning of “mitran nu marenge kuware tu”?
Answer 8: This is a dramatic Punjabi expression meaning “You will be the death of me, unmarried” or “You will cause me to die a bachelor.” He is saying that her rejection is so profound that he feels he will never marry if he can’t be with her.
Question 9: What are the “laraiyaan” he promises to give up?
Answer 9: “Laraiyaan” means fights or conflicts. This could refer to literal fights, given his “velli” persona, or metaphorical struggles in his life. He is promising that her love would bring him peace and he would abandon his confrontational ways for her.
Question 10: What are “matthe te tiodiyan”?
Answer 10: This phrase translates to “frowns on the forehead.” He is expressing his frustration that no matter what he does for her, she always seems to be frowning or displeased, never showing him a sign of happiness or acceptance.
Question 11: What does Aujla mean by “sanu vi ni thodian”?
Answer 11: After acknowledging she has many admirers (“Tainu bibba baddiyan”), he says, “sanu vi ni thodian,” which means “I don’t have a shortage either.” It’s a prideful statement to remind her that he is also highly desirable and has other options.
Question 12: What is the ultimatum the protagonist gives in the third verse?
Answer 12: He asks her to be honest and tell him if there is another person in her life (“Tu aaj keh de haiga ae koi hor”). The ultimatum is that if she confirms there is someone else, he swears on her that he will stop contacting her from the very next day.
Question 13: What does he predict will happen if she rejects him?
Answer 13: He confidently predicts that she will regret her decision (“pachtaayengi”). He believes his value is so high that she will not be able to find another partner like him.
Question 14: Why does he say she will sing his songs (“gaane Aujle de gaayengi”)?
Answer 14: This is a meta-reference to his own fame. He is saying that his music is so influential and emotionally resonant that even if she rejects him, his songs about love and heartbreak will be a part of her life, constantly reminding her of him.
Question 15: Can you explain the metaphor of the gardens and the berry trees?
Answer 15: He compares the successful love lives of other people to “blooming gardens” (“khirge bageeche”), a symbol of happiness and fulfillment. He then likens his own love life to his “berry trees” (“beriyan”) which have not yet borne fruit, symbolizing his frustration and feeling of being left behind in romance.
Question 16: What does the line about “swargan ch…pariyan” reveal about his state of mind?
Answer 16: This line about finding love with angels (“pariyan”) in heaven (“swargan”) reveals that he has reached a state of cynical resignation. It’s a humorous and exaggerated way of saying he has given up on finding love with her in this life and is masking his deep disappointment with bravado.
Question 17: Is “HIM.” a love song or a song about ego?
Answer 17: It is both. The song beautifully captures the duality of love and ego. While his deep love and vulnerability are evident in his pleas and sacrifices, his ego is on full display in his boasts, his confidence in her future regret, and his refusal to beg endlessly.
Question 18: What aspects of Punjabi culture are reflected in the song’s lyrics?
Answer 18: The song is rich with Punjabi cultural references, including the importance of land ownership (“pacchi kile”), the social archetype of the “velli” or “gabru,” dramatic expressions of love and frustration, and the high value placed on pride and self-respect.
Question 19: How does the song “HIM.” fit into the overall theme of the album P-POP CULTURE?
Answer 19: P-POP CULTURE explores the various facets of modern Punjabi identity. “HIM.” fits perfectly as it dissects the complexities of modern masculinity and romance within this cultural context. It contributes to the album’s broader narrative about navigating love, fame, and tradition in the contemporary world.
Question 20: What is the overall tone of the song?
Answer 20: The overall tone is a dynamic mix of confident swagger, heartfelt desperation, and melancholic resignation. It shifts from being a romantic pursuit to a frustrated confrontation and finally to a prideful acceptance of fate, making it emotionally complex and relatable.