Word Meaning
बे-मज़ा
be-maza
Meaning
Tasteless, displeased, offended, or devoid of pleasure and enjoyment.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'be-maza' denotes something lacking relish or a person feeling offended, bitter, or disappointed. In Ghalib's verse, it reflects the psychological state of an offended party, implying that the rival did not feel bitterness or displeased even upon receiving verbal abuses because they fell from such sweet lips. Thus, the insult itself became sweet and enjoyable rather than distasteful.
Etymology
Persian prefix 'be-' (without) + Arabic-derived Persian noun 'maza' (taste, pleasure, relish).
Usage
In the ghazal, poets frequently exploit the double meaning of 'be-maza' spanning both sensory tastelessness and emotional vexation.
Examples
Hearing bitter words, the gathering lost its joy and grew unpleasant.
He endured taunts with a smile, showing no trace of displeasure.