Word Meaning
आहू
aahu
Meaning
A gazelle or deer, traditionally celebrated for its beautiful, wide eyes.
Detailed Meaning
In Persian and classical Urdu poetry, 'aahu' refers to a gazelle or deer, prized for its wild grace and timid, expressive eyes. In this couplet, 'chashm-e-aahu' (the eye of the gazelle) serves as an emblem of desert wilderness where Majnun's obsession transforms the deer's dark pupil into the beloved Laila's mole. It epitomizes wild desert creatures touched by the lover's consuming vision.
Etymology
Persian (آهو / āhu), from Proto-Iranian roots denoting a deer or gazelle.
Usage
Frequently employed in ghazals as an aesthetic standard for captivating eyes ('chashm-e-aahu') or to represent skittishness and untamed wilderness.
Examples
chashm-e-aahu (the gazelle-like eye)
aahu-e-ram-khurda (a startled gazelle)