Word Meaning
ख़ुशी
khushī
Meaning
Joy, happiness, delight, pleasure, or celebration.
Detailed Meaning
'ख़ुशी' denotes a state or emotion of joy, contentment, or festive celebration. In this couplet by Ghalib, it reflects the widespread public rejoicing and collective relief experienced upon the recovery of Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar from illness. It marks a moment where communal worry is replaced by widespread celebration.
Etymology
Persian (خوشی), formed from 'khwush' (خوش, meaning pleasant or happy) combined with the abstract noun suffix '-ī' (-ی).
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, 'ख़ुशी' is frequently depicted as a rare or fleeting state, often contrasted directly with enduring sorrow ('ग़म').
Examples
A fleeting moment of joy in a lifetime of sorrow
Their arrival brought profound happiness to the gathering