Word Meaning
खुलीं
khulīñ
Meaning
Opened (feminine plural past tense, referring to eyes).
Detailed Meaning
'Khulīñ' is the feminine plural past-tense form of the verb 'khulnā' (to open), agreeing here with 'āṅkheñ' (eyes). In this couplet, it signifies a belated awakening to reality, realizing one's true grief and loss only after Mir's life or spirit has departed. It metaphorically represents sudden awareness emerging after a period of negligence or unconsciousness.
Etymology
Sanskrit मूल 'खुल्ल' / प्राकृत 'खुल्लइ' से विकसित होकर हिंदी/उर्दू 'खुलना'।
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, the opening of eyes ('āṅkheñ khulnā') frequently symbolizes painful disillusionment or a tragic awakening that arrives too late.
Examples
Sleep broke, and eyes opened to a world of sorrow.
When my eyes finally opened, the caravan had already departed.