dohalike

Dohalike is a term used to describe poetry or prose that emulates the doha form. The doha is a traditional two-line verse that often conveys a concise moral, spiritual, or practical insight. The adjective doh-like (dohalike) applies to works that imitate this structure, tone, or didactic aim, regardless of language.

Etymology: The term combines Hindi doha, meaning a two-line stanza, with the English suffix -like, signaling resemblance rather than exact replication.

Form and features: Typical dohali ke pieces present a rapid pairing of image and insight in two lines. The first line often sets a situation or image, while the second delivers a resolution, moral, or general truth. Parallelism, concise diction, and a focus on universal or timeless themes are common, though modern adaptations may experiment with rhythm, imagery, or diction to suit contemporary concerns.

Usage and scope: In contemporary criticism and creative practice, dohali ke works describe modern poems written in two-line couplets, translations, or original compositions that deliberately echo traditional dohas. They may appear in poetry collections, academic essays, and experimental anthologies, serving pedagogical or exploratory purposes as well as aesthetic ones.

Examples and reception: A modern dohali ke poem might present a everyday scenario in the first line and a succinct moral in the second. Some critics view dohali ke forms as a respectful bridge to tradition, while others caution against repetitive or formulaic use that may limit expressive range.

See also: Doha; Indian poetry; Couplet; Poetry forms.