Leylî

Leylî is a prominent figure in classical Persian and Turkic literature, most famously known for her tragic love story with Majnun. The tale of Leylî and Majnun, originating from the Arabian Peninsula, was widely popularized by the 12th-century Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi in his epic poem "Layla and Majnun."

The story centers on Leylî, a beautiful young woman, and Qays, a poet who becomes so consumed by his love for her that he is driven to madness. Qays, renamed Majnun (meaning "possessed" or "mad") by his community, wanders the desert, composing verses about his unrequited love for Leylî. Their love is ultimately forbidden by societal norms and family opposition, leading to their eventual separation and tragic ends.

Leylî herself is often portrayed as an idealized beloved, embodying beauty, virtue, and unattainable perfection. While Majnun is the more outwardly expressive character, Leylî's quiet suffering and enduring love are also central to the narrative. The tale has been retold and adapted by numerous poets and artists across centuries and cultures, becoming a timeless allegory for divine love and the torment of separation. It has influenced subsequent literary traditions and remains a significant motif in Middle Eastern and Central Asian culture.