Word Meaning
चलाई
chalaaii
Meaning
Initiated, started, or broached (a topic or conversation).
Detailed Meaning
The word 'chalaaii' is the feminine past-tense form of the transitive verb 'chalaana' (to set in motion, initiate, or drive). When paired idiomatically with 'baat' (बात चलाना), it signifies raising, broaching, or spreading a subject of discussion. In the couplet, it describes the morning breeze (saba) introducing the mention of the beloved's swift grace, which left even the pheasants (tadarv) frozen in awe.
Etymology
Sanskrit root 'चल्' (calati, to move) > Prakrit 'चल्लइ' > Hindavi 'चलना' / 'चलाना'.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, the phrase 'बात चलाना' commonly depicts an agent, like the breeze or a messenger, introducing a sensitive or evocative topic.
Examples
She broached the topic of parting again.
When the morning breeze initiated the tale of the garden.