Word Meaning
हँसमुख
hansmukh
Meaning
Cheerful, smiling, possessing a radiant and jovial countenance.
Detailed Meaning
In classical poetry, 'hansmukh' describes someone with an inherently joyful, smiling, and lively countenance. In this couplet, the poet highlights the absurdity of comparing a cheerful beloved to a burning candle ('sham'a'), which naturally drips wax like tears and presents a mournful look ('roni surat'). The term underscores the radiant charm of the beloved in contrast to conventional melancholic poetic tropes.
Etymology
Hindustani compound of Indic origin: derived from Sanskrit 'has' (हस्, to laugh/smile) + 'mukha' (मुख, face).
Usage
In Urdu poetry, 'hansmukh' is often used to contrast the beloved's vibrant, joyful beauty with images of weeping or sorrow.
Examples
hansmukh chehra (a cheerful, smiling face)
teri hansmukh tabiyat (your jovial, bright disposition)