Word Meaning
इस्तिग़ना
istighna
hinoun
Meaning
Aloofness, proud indifference, self-sufficiency, or freedom from desire.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, istighna denotes an air of proud independence, carelessness, or supreme aloofness. In this couplet, it captures the irony of the beloved's feigned posture of complete self-sufficiency, which is exposed as false since her beauty is entirely dependent upon henna and cosmetics.
Etymology
Arabic root غ-ن-ی (gh-n-y); Form X verbal noun 'istighnā' meaning to be independent, content, or free from want.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, istighna commonly attributes a cold, disdainful detachment to the beloved or noble non-attachment to worldly desire for a mystic.
Examples
Do not ask of beauty's aloof disdain
In humble poverty lies the dignity of true detachment
Synonyms
बेनियाज़ीलापरवाहीबेपरवाहीतजाहुल
Related Words
ग़नीबेनियाज़मुस्तग़नी