Word Meaning
भोले
bhole
Meaning
Innocent, simple, guileless, naive, or artless.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Hindustani poetry, 'bhole' conveys innocence, simplicity, or apparent naivety. In this couplet, it is combined with 'bhāle' to satirize the pious preacher (vā'iz), ironically contrasting his sanctimonious, harmless appearance with his covetous desires for the heavenly houris. It highlights a persona that seems guileless externally while being shrewdly motivated beneath.
Etymology
From Sanskrit 'vihvala' (confounded, artless) evolving through Middle Indo-Aryan/Prakrit into New Indo-Aryan 'bholā' (simple, innocent).
Usage
Frequently paired with 'bhāle' in Urdu poetry, either to tenderly depict the beloved's charming innocence or to satirize the hypocritical simplicity of the moralist.
Examples
Ye bhole bhāle log kyā jāneñ fareb-e-zindagī
Bhole ban kar vo dil luuṭ lete haiñ