पहली

Meaning

First, initial, earliest, or beginning.

Detailed Meaning

In this couplet, 'पहली' qualifies the beloved's initial gestures of favor and kindness ('iltifātēn') at the onset of romance. It emphasizes the stark contrast between the early warmth that misled the lover and the current bitter realization of betrayal. The poet mourns how these early attentions seduced him into giving away his heart.

Etymology

From Sanskrit 'प्रथम' (prathama) via Prakrit 'पहिल' (pahila) into Hindavi/Urdu.

Usage

In the ghazal tradition, it is often employed to summon nostalgic memories of early courtship that contrast sharply with present suffering.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words