सुरमे

Meaning

Kohl, antimony, or fine black cosmetic powder applied to the eyes (oblique form).

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu poetry, 'surma' refers to kohl or collyrium applied to heighten the allure of the beloved's eyes. In this couplet, Ghalib portrays the beloved's coquettish glance ('nigah-e-naz') as being displeased with kohl after the poet's departure, signifying grief or the refusal of cosmetic enhancement. Grammatically, 'surme' is the oblique form of 'surma' required by the postposition 'se'.

Etymology

From Persian 'surma' (سرمه), meaning antimony or collyrium powder.

Usage

In the ghazal tradition, 'surma' is richly associated with Koh-e Tur's pulverized ash, the sharpening of sight, and the adornment of the beloved.

Examples

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Related Words