कभी ऐ इल्म ओ हुनर घर था तुम्हारा दिल्ली हम को भूले हो तो घर भूल न जाना हरगिज़
— Altaf Hussain Hali
Meaning

O knowledge and art, Delhi was once your home; even if you have forgotten us, never forget your home.

Explanation

This couplet is a poignant, affectionate conversation with intellect and creativity, personifying knowledge and art as dear old companions who have wandered away. Delhi was once the radiant sanctuary of poetry, craft, and learning, a glory that slowly faded under the weight of history and hardship. With gentle longing, the poet pleads: even if you have forgotten the people who dwell here now, never forget the sacred soil of Delhi, for this city will always remain your true home.

Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.

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