Word Meaning
जलता
jalta
Meaning
Burning, suffering agony, being consumed by fire or internal anguish.
Detailed Meaning
In Urdu poetics, this present participle conveys both literal burning and the figurative fire of jealousy, regret, or unbearable inner torment. In this couplet by Ghalib, the speaker laments that he did not perish instantly before the beloved's overwhelming radiance, and instead continues to burn with frustration and grief at his own audacious capacity to endure the vision.
Etymology
Sanskrit ज्वलति (jvalati, 'burns/shines') through Prakrit into Hindustani जलना (jalna).
Usage
Frequently deployed in ghazals to evoke the imagery of a moth consumed by flame or a heart smoldering in the fire of separation.
Examples
Jalta hai dil firaaq ki aag mein har dam.
Shama ki tarah jalta raha raat bhar.