Word Meaning
बतला
batla
Meaning
To tell, inform, show, or explain; root of to tell.
Detailed Meaning
In this couplet, 'batla' functions in a compound verb construction with 'dun' ('batla dun'), signifying 'let me tell' or 'allow me to remind you'. The lover offers to reveal his forgotten whereabouts and identity to the careless beloved hunter. It conveys a poignant mixture of longing, grief, and reproach over being completely discarded.
Etymology
From Sanskrit वार्ता (vārtā, news/matter) via Prakrit वत्त (vatta), evolving into Hindi-Urdu बताना/बतलाना.
Usage
In classical ghazal poetry, it is frequently combined with auxiliary verbs to express revealing hidden secrets or reminding the beloved of past devotion.
Examples
Allow me to tell the hidden secret of my heart.
Show or tell me the path to the beloved's street.