Word Meaning
बानीयाँ
bāniyāñ
Meaning
Habits, ways, customs, or ingrained mischievous traits.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'bāniyāñ' refers to ingrained habits, characteristics, or distinctive manners of behavior. In this couplet, it describes the enduring, rebellious whims and mischievous ways of the sacred flame that set Mount Sinai ablaze, showing that its turbulent nature remains completely unchanged.
Etymology
From Hindi/Prakrit 'bān' (habit, disposition) with the feminine suffix '-ī', pluralized with the Urdu plural suffix '-yāñ'.
Usage
Frequently used in the ghazal to affectionately or reproachfully describe the coquettish traits, mischievous tendencies, or enduring habits of the beloved.
Examples
Old habits and mischievous ways are not easily forsaken.
The beloved continues those same alluring and teasing ways.