Word Meaning
आईना-बंदी
aaina-bandi
Meaning
Adornment with mirrors; mirror-like clarity, polished brilliance, or reflective luster.
Detailed Meaning
Literally refers to the architectural ornamentation of embedding mirrors into walls or surfaces. In Ghalib's couplet, it metaphorically signifies the polished, luminous, and reflective perfection of a pearl, achieved through enduring self-restraint. It evokes an image of pristine radiance crafted out of concentrated depth.
Etymology
Persian compound formed from 'ā'īna' (mirror) + 'bandī' (fastening/adorning, from 'bastan').
Usage
Commonly employed in classical ghazal to denote luminous beauty, royal splendor, or the transparent clarity of tears and pearls.
Examples
The aaina-bandi of evening turned the palace into a hall of light.
A single tear created an aaina-bandi across the beloved's cheek.