दोख़्ता-ग़म्माज़

Meaning

That which reveals secrets despite being sewn up or concealed.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'dokhta' means stitched, shut, or lowered (as in sewn or downcast eyes), while 'ghammaaz' denotes a tale-bearer, informer, or betrayer of secrets. In Ghalib's verse, the compound metaphorically describes eyes that are nominally closed, veiled, or stitched by modesty, yet their inner restlessness completely gives away their hidden desire and emotion. It captures the paradox of concealed feelings betraying themselves despite rigorous restraint.

Etymology

Persian 'dōkhtah' (stitched, sewn, closed) + Arabic 'ghammāz' (tattletale, backbiter, revealer of secrets).

Usage

A highly inventive Ghalibian compound highlighting the tension between self-restraint and involuntary emotional disclosure.

Examples

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Related Words