Word Meaning
बुतान
butan
Meaning
Idols; figuratively, beloveds or heartless beauties.
Detailed Meaning
'Butan' is the Persian plural form of 'but', literally meaning idols. In classical Persian and Urdu ghazal, it is a quintessential metaphor for beautiful, indifferent beloveds whose stone-like coldness contrasts with their captivating charm. In this couplet, it describes the striking beauties whose alluring, poised gait stirs up a tumult like Judgment Day.
Etymology
Persian, plural of 'but' (idol, statue), historically traced back through Middle Persian to Buddhist iconography.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, 'butan' represents the beloveds whose worship serves as a playful, provocative subversion of formal religious orthodoxy.
Examples
Bewitched by the enchanting idols of this city
Expecting fidelity from these stone-hearted idols