हम को सितम अज़ीज़ सितमगर को हम अज़ीज़
ना-मेहरबाँ नहीं है अगर मेहरबाँ नहीं
— Mirza Ghalib
Meaning
To us, cruelty is dear, and to the cruel beloved, we are dear. Even if they do not show kindness, it does not mean they are unkind.
Explanation
This beautiful couplet explores deep emotions and philosophy. Ghalib masterfully presents themes of love and spirituality through rich imagery that resonates across centuries, inviting contemplation of life's deeper truths.