```
Phool aur kaante jud hue ek dale pe
Is zindagi ki yehi mahak hai aur gale hai
Phoolon se khushboo le lo aur kaanton se zara bachana
Chubhe jo kaanta to uski ghaav par marham lagna
```
Interpretation:
1. Unity of Opposites: The poet highlights the interconnectedness of seemingly opposite elements – flowers (phool) and thorns (kaante) growing on the same stem (ek dale pe). This metaphor symbolizes the coexistence of both pleasant and challenging aspects in life.
2. Essence of Life: The poet suggests that the essence of life lies in the coexistence of these opposites – "Is zindagi ki yehi mahak hai aur gale hai" (This is life's fragrance, its embrace, and its struggle). Life is not defined solely by joy or sorrow, but rather by the interplay between the two.
3. Finding Balance: The poet urges us to find a balance in life, symbolized by the advice to "Phoolon se khushboo le lo aur kaanton se zara bachana" (Embrace the fragrance of flowers and avoid the thorns). This suggests that we should embrace the positive aspects of life while being cautious about the potential challenges and avoiding unnecessary hurt.
4. Resilience and Healing: In the face of life's challenges represented by the thorns (kaante), the poet emphasizes the importance of resilience and healing – "Chubhe jo kaanta to uski ghaav par marham lagna" (If a thorn pricks, apply ointment to heal the wound). This line serves as a reminder to seek healing and support when facing difficulties.
Overall, the last stanza of Ayodhya Singh Upadhya's poem "Phool Aur Kaanta" conveys a message of finding balance and resilience in the face of life's contrasts. It encourages readers to embrace both the positive and challenging aspects of life, while seeking healing and support when needed.