Word Meaning
रंज
ranj
hinoun (masculine)
Meaning
Grief, sorrow, affliction, distress, or physical pain and vexation.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetics, 'ranj' signifies both internal emotional anguish and physical discomfort or suffering. In this couplet by Ghalib, it specifically denotes the physical pain and torment caused by the heavy burden of iron chains binding the imprisoned lover. It stands in contrast to the sweet agony of being captive to the beloved's curling tresses.
Etymology
Persian (رنج - ranj), meaning trouble, affliction, toil, or grief.
Usage
Frequently paired with terms like 'ग़म' or 'अलम' in ghazals to emphasize enduring existential suffering and the pains of love.
Examples
ranj se ḳhū-gar huā insāñ to miṭ jaatā hai ranj
kuchh ranj-o-alam kī baat karo
Synonyms
ग़मदुःखअलमतकलीफ़
Related Words
रंजीदारंजिशरंज-ओ-ग़मरंज-ओ-अलम