Chhand in Hindi Grammar: The Rhythm of Poetry
Chhand (छन्द) in Hindi grammar refers to the metrical structure of poetry. It's essentially a rhythmic pattern that governs the arrangement of syllables, stressed and unstressed sounds, and pauses within a verse.
Think of it like a musical composition: the notes and their arrangement create a melody, and similarly, chhand creates a unique flow and rhythm in poetry.
Here's a breakdown of some prominent chhand types:
1. Dohā (दोहा):
* Structure: 16 syllables, divided into four chhands (4-4-4-4)
* Rhythm: Alternate stressed and unstressed syllables
* Example:
> *दया करुणामय गिरधर, भक्त जनों के दुख हार।*
> *अवगुण तजि सदा करो, मंगल भई अवसर उचार।*
Translation:
> *The merciful and compassionate Lord Krishna, the destroyer of his devotees' suffering.*
> *Always give up your vices, speak words that bring auspiciousness, the opportunity is here.*
2. Sorathā (सोरठा):
* Structure: 13 syllables, divided into three chhands (4-4-5)
* Rhythm: Similar to Dohā, but with a longer third chhand
* Example:
> *जोगी का चिला, चिलावे, घर चले रोज।*
> *सबकी करि सराहना, करि तन मन पोज।*
Translation:
> *The Yogi sings his praises, returns home every day.*
> *He praises all, fills his body and mind with joy.*
3. Couplet (रुपक):
* Structure: Two lines with a specific rhyme scheme
* Rhythm: Varies based on the specific chhand used
* Example:
> *मन के हार न मानो, धैर्य धरो, जीतोगे तुम सब।*
> *जीवन है संग्राम, हार-जीत, एक खेल।*
Translation:
> *Don't give up hope, have patience, you will win everything.*
> *Life is a struggle, victory and defeat are all part of the game.*
4. Chitra (चित्रा):
* Structure: Irregular, flexible, and poetic
* Rhythm: Depends on the poet's creativity and the theme
* Example:
> *झरना है, झरना है, गीत गाता, बहता है।*
> *पहाड़ों से गिरता है, नीले पानी में डूबता है।*
Translation:
> *The waterfall is flowing, singing its song.*
> *It falls from the mountains, submerging in the blue water.*
5. Other Chhand Types:
* Dohaī (दोहाई): A plea or lament
* Chopai (चौपाई): Four lines with 16 syllables
* Swayam (स्वयं): A flexible chhand with varying syllables
* Aāvhan (आव्हान): A chhand used for invocations or challenges
* Rāg (राग): A chhand with a distinct musical quality
Chhand's Significance:
* Rhythm and Flow: Chhand gives Hindi poetry its characteristic rhythm and flow, making it melodious and enjoyable to listen to.
* Emotional Impact: Different chhand types evoke different emotions, adding depth and richness to poetry.
* Literary Tradition: Chhand is an integral part of Hindi literary tradition, helping preserve the rhythmic beauty of classical poetry.
Learning about chhand is a valuable step in understanding and appreciating the nuances of Hindi poetry. It opens a doorway to a rich world of literary artistry and rhythmic beauty.