Word Meaning
लाली
lālī
Meaning
Redness, rosy hue, blush, or the crimson tint of lips.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'lālī' denotes redness, radiance, or a delicate crimson glow. In this couplet, it specifically describes the alluring crimson hue of the beloved's lips ('lab kī lālī'). The lover marvels at whether this shade is merely the stain of betel leaf (pān) or the metaphoric blood of captivated lovers.
Etymology
Derived from the Indo-Aryan base 'lāl' (red), related to Sanskrit 'lohita' (red, copper-colored), combined with the nominal suffix '-ī' to form an abstract noun.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'lālī' frequently celebrates the irresistible redness of the beloved's lips, commonly compared to ruby, wine, betel juice, or the blood of lovers.
Examples
The crimson glow of twilight pales before your grace.
The redness of betel-stained lips conquered the assembly.