ઘંટીનાં પડ જ્યું ટાંકિયાં હો જી. -બાઈ! એક. ગાલે ટાંક્યાં ગલફૂલ, કાંડે ટાંકી કાંકણી;
— Jhaverchand Meghani
Meaning

Just as millstones are precisely carved, oh dear, a lady has 'cheek-flowers' carved on her cheeks and bangles carved on her wrists.

Explanation

This couplet beautifully describes traditional adornment, starting by comparing intricate patterns to the markings on a grinding millstone, suggesting something deeply etched or carefully crafted. It then paints a picture of a woman's beauty: 'galfool,' or flower-like designs, are metaphorically 'carved' onto her cheeks, perhaps referring to blush, intricate face paint, or delicate tattoos that enhance her loveliness. Similarly, 'kankani,' or bangle-like patterns, are 'carved' onto her wrists, likely depicting beautiful mehndi designs or bangles worn with grace. It evokes a sense of timeless elegance and the artistry involved in traditional beautification.

Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.

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