The Basic Colors in Urdu – Their Meanings, Origins, and Cultural Significance in South Asia and Urdu Poetry

Colors is one of the most interesting topics for all ages. When you’re learning a new language, this topic becomes even more interesting because you can learn and apply literally everywhere and anywhere around you. It’s practical, fun, and beautiful. So, let’s talk about how to say the different beautiful colors in this beautiful Urdu language! Here, you’ll find the 10 basic colors in Urdu, the adjectives commonly and not-so-commonly used for the colors in Urdu, and the different shades of these colors. Let’s get right into it!

Rung (also spelled Rang)

The Urdu word for “color” is “rung”, which originates from the Persian/Farsi language. It’s categorized as masculine, so the plural in Urdu remains “rung”. The word first made its way in the Urdu language in the year 1611 in one of Qali Qutub Shah’s Kulliyaat*. However, Amir Khurso, a renowned poet known for seamlessly blending Persian and Urdu in his works, used rung in his poetry much earlier.

*Kulliyaat is a compilation or collection of all works of a single author or poet. It typically includes all their poems, writings, or literary pieces, brought together into one volume or set. For example, Kulliyaat-e-Ghalib (Mirza Ghalib’s collection of work), Kulliyaat-e-Iqbal (Allama Iqbal’s collection of work).

Rung – Beyond Just “Color”

The word “rung” is much more than just “color”. Depending on the context, it can also mean:

• Paint, Pigment, hue, or dye (of an object)
• Complexion (of a person or an object)
• Fashion or Style (of a person)
• State or condition (commonly used in idioms)
• Mood or manner (of a person)
• Beauty

This versatility is beautifully reflected in idiomatic expressions and cultural traditions, making “rung” a word full of life and emotion.

Qawwali Reference: Aaj Rung Hai (Today, there’s color)

One of the most iconic uses of rung in South Asian culture is in the qawwali “Aaj Rung Hai“. This timeless piece, often performed at the conclusion of a mehfil (a spiritual gathering), is attributed to Amir Khusro himself. The qawwali celebrates divine love and spiritual ecstasy, symbolized by being “colored” in the hues of devotion.

Its famous refrain—”Aaj rung hai ae maa, rung hai ri*”—celebrates the joy of love, unity, and spirituality. Performed with rhythmic claps and melodic voices, this qawwali captivates listeners and leaves them deeply moved.

* “Aaj rung hai ae maa, rung hai ri” means “today, there’s color, O mother, there is color!”.

The table below provides Urdu-English translations, Urdu script, and pronunciation guides for each word, helping you speak with confidence. Use it to explore common “rung“-related words like colorful, colorless, and more.

Let’s move to the basic colors and their usage.

1. Red: Laal

The Urdu word for “red” is “laal”, which is a non-gendered adjective. The word remains the same whether describing a male, female, or plural items. For instance,

• Ek laal butti hai. (There is a red light. – butti is feminine in Urdu)
• Ek laal glass hai. (There is a red glass. – glass is masculine in Urdu)
• Chaar laal chumchay hain. (There are four red spoons. – chumchay are masculine-plural)

“Laal” is found in Sanskrit, Turkish, and Farsi (Persian), however, the word primarily originates from Sanskrit and Farsi, rather than Turkish. This is because the primary origins and usage in Urdu align more with Sanskrit and Farsi influences. So, the core origin for Laal in Urdu is from Sanskrit and Farsi, with some cultural and linguistic overlap with Turkish.

• Sanskrit Meaning: In Sanskrit, Laal refers to a small red bird, boy, child, or son. This usage can be seen as a reflection of something vibrant, youthful, or full of life. In Urdu, the word Laal still carries the same essence, often used to describe vivid red objects or people with a vibrant or lively personality. The term is closely linked to vitality and the joy of life.
• Turkish Meaning: In Turkish, Laal is used to mean beloved, darling, dear, as well as the color red, and can also imply being angry or dumb. In Urdu, Laal shares this connection with love and affection, often being used metaphorically to refer to someone cherished or precious – more commonly for parental love, instead of romantic love. Additionally, Laal can denote anger, especially when one is described as “becoming red” due to rage, showing the emotional depth tied to the color red.
• Farsi Meaning: In Farsi, Laal retains its association with the color red, and this same meaning is reflected in Urdu. The term in both languages can symbolize beauty, passion, and intense emotion. The deep connection of Laal with love, desire, and even conflict is a common thread that weaves through both Farsi and Urdu.

Cultural Significance: In many South Asian cultures, red is a symbol of prosperity, good luck, and celebration. It’s a dominant color in weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. In addition, red also holds a powerful revolutionary and rebellious significance. It has been historically linked to inqilaab (revolution), armed struggle, and revolt.

The color red is often associated with the bloodshed and sacrifice of martyrs who fought for freedom and justice. For instance, red flags have been used by revolutionary groups as symbols of resistance and the fight for political change. “Inqilaab Zindabaad” (Long live the revolution) became a rallying cry during the Indian independence movement in 1928, and red was widely adopted by those pushing for social justice and equality.

In modern times, red continues to symbolize the struggle for change in various social and political movements, making it a color that embodies both celebration and resistance, depending on the context.

Poetry and Literature: Red has a strong presence in classical Urdu poetry. Poets often use red to symbolize the beauty of the beloved or the depth of pain and longing. For example, Mirza Ghalib frequently used color symbolism in his poetry, where red could represent intense love or powerful emotions.

Synonyms: Another common way to refer to the color red is surkh which has Persian origins and also refers to the color red.

2. Pink: Gulaabi

The Urdu word for “pink” is “gulaabi”, which is a non-gendered adjective. The word remains the same whether describing a male, female, or plural items. For instance,

• Ek gulaabi butti hai. (There is a pink light. – butti is feminine in Urdu)
• Ek gulaabi gulaab hai. (There is a pink rose. – gulaab is masculine in Urdu)
• Chaar gulaabi phool hain. (There are four pink flowers. – phool are masculine-plural)

“Gulaabi” originates from Farsi (Persian) and means “of roses”, symbolizing the soft, delicate pink color associated with roses.

Cultural Significance: The color gulaabi holds deep cultural significance in South Asia, symbolizing romance, femininity, beauty, and celebration. Its soft and vibrant hue evokes positive emotions and is celebrated in various aspects of life. It is a staple in festive occasions, from bridal attire to decorative themes, symbolizing grace and joy. Decorations in pink shades are also a staple for creating a warm and celebratory ambiance. The term “phool gulaabi” (pink flower) is used to describe radiant beauty, connecting pink to a person’s natural charm. Additionally, the color is prominent in textiles and crafts, including sarees, shalwar kameez, and truck art, embodying vibrancy and playfulness within South Asian culture.

Poetry and Literature: In Urdu poetry, pink (especially the shade of roses) often symbolizes beauty, romance, purity, and tenderness. Faiz Ahmed Faiz, for example, used the symbolism of roses and pink hues to express romantic and passionate themes in his poetry.

Synonyms: Another common way to refer to the color pink is piyaazi which literally means oniony (or of the onion). And the color refers to the onion-like pink or reddish pink. A common form of piyaazi rung is gehra piyaazi which refers to a deeper, more intense pink or purple-pink shade.

Gulaabi Urdu is a Modern Form of Urdu? Gulaabi Urdu refers to a simplified, modern, and more colloquial form of the Urdu language, often used in casual or everyday conversations. The term “gulaabi” translates to “pink”, and when paired with “Urdu”, it evokes the idea of something light, soft, and approachable, much like the delicate nature of the color pink.

So, in this context, Gulaabi Urdu is used to describe a style of speaking that is free from the heavy influence of Arabic or Persian vocabulary, making it more accessible and easier to understand for a wider audience. It often reflects the way Urdu is spoken in urban settings, particularly in India and Pakistan, where the language has evolved to incorporate more contemporary expressions and a lighter tone.

While Gulaabi Urdu is not an official or standardized form of the language, it is used informally to describe the conversational, less formal variety of Urdu that relies on simpler vocabulary and grammar. It’s often seen as modern, youthful, and relatable, compared to the more classical and formal registers of Urdu used in literature and traditional poetry.

In essence, Gulaabi Urdu represents the everyday, friendly, and approachable side of the language, much like how pink is seen as a gentle and accessible color.

3. Blue: Neela

The Urdu word for “blue” is “neela”, a gendered adjective originating from Farsi (Persian). Like other gendered adjectives in Urdu, the ending sound of “neela” changes depending on the gender of the noun it describes. For example,

• Ek neeli butti hai. (There is a blue light.) – The word “neeli” aligns with the feminine noun butti (light).
• Ek neela chumcha hai. (There is a blue spoon.) – Here, “neela” corresponds to the masculine noun chumcha (spoon).
• Chaar neelay phool hain. (There are four blue flowers.) – In this case, “neelay” matches the masculine-plural noun phool (flowers).

Cultural Significance: In South Asian culture, including Pakistan, neela holds rich symbolic and cultural meanings. It is often associated with protection, spirituality, and tranquility. Blue beads, known as “neeli moti,” are widely used as talismans to ward off the evil eye. These beads are hung in homes, cars, or worn as jewelry, reflecting a practice shared across South Asia and the Middle East.

Blue is a color of calmness and peace, deeply connected to Islamic traditions in the region. It is prominently featured in the interiors of mosques, such as the Shah Jahan Mosque in Thatta, and in intricate tile art, symbolizing serenity and divine connection.

The neelam (sapphire) gemstone is highly regarded in South Asia. It is believed to bring luck, prosperity, and protection, and many people consult astrologers before wearing a neelam ring to ensure its alignment with their zodiac sign.

In modern times, blue plays a vibrant role in truck art, a celebrated form of cultural expression in Pakistan, showcasing the color’s continuing significance in daily life. From its spiritual connotations to its protective and artistic uses, neela remains a profound and multifaceted element of South Asian cultural identity.

Poetry and Literature: In Urdu literature, the phrase “neela aasmaan” (blue sky) or “neela sumunder” (blue sea) is considered poetic and romantic, and symbolizes infinite possibilities, or deep emotions such as freedom or hope.

4. Green: Hura (Also spelled Hara)

The Urdu word for “green” is “hura”, a gendered adjective that originates from Sanskrit. In Urdu, the ending sound of this word changes based on the gender of the associated noun. For example:

• Ek huri butti hai. (There is a green light. – butti is feminine in Urdu)
• Ek hura chumcha hai. (There is a green spoon. – chumcha is masculine in Urdu)
• Chaar huray phool hain. (There are four green flowers. – phool are masculine-plural)

Huraapun refers to the state or quality of being hura, and it is used to describe the condition of something being fresh, lush, or vibrant in a metaphorical sense. It conveys the essence of the color green, often associated with growth, vitality, and fertility. In a broader context, it can be used to describe something that is flourishing, youthful, or in a state of renewal, much like how green is seen in nature. In essence, this term reflects not only the color, but also the emotional or environmental impact that green has, symbolizing vitality, calm, and rejuvenation.

Cultural Significance: Green holds a profound cultural and spiritual significance in South Asia, particularly in Islamic traditions. In Islam, green is associated with paradise, renewal, and peace, making it a highly revered color. This symbolism is evident in Pakistan’s national flag, where green represents Islam and the Muslim majority.

In traditional attire and festivities, green is often worn during celebrations such as Eid, signifying joy and spirituality. The use of green in truck art, mosques, and home decorations reflects its importance as a color of positivity and prosperity. Additionally, shades like dhaani (a light green) are popular in South Asian textiles and crafts, adding vibrancy to cultural aesthetics.

Poetry and Literature: In Urdu poetry, green is frequently used to symbolize nature, hope, and vitality. Poets often describe lush landscapes, the rejuvenation of spring, or the freshness of life using green imagery. For instance, the word subz often appears in couplets to evoke images of growth and renewal.

Classical poets such as Ghalib and Mir have incorporated green in their verses to signify life’s flourishing beauty or to contrast the joy of nature with human melancholy. Green is also a symbol of youth and optimism, making it a recurring motif in South Asian poetic traditions.

Synonyms: Another common way to refer to the color green is subz, symbolizing freshness, fertility, and life. Akhzer, a more formal or poetic word of Arabic origin, is often used in literature to describe a rich and deep green shade. Dhaani refers to a light, delicate green, similar to the color of unripe grains or young leaves, and is commonly used in descriptions of nature and textiles. Kaai, on the other hand, refers to a greenish hue with a slight brown undertone, resembling moss or algae, and is typically associated with earthy and natural tones.

5. Black: Kaala

The Urdu word for “black” is “kaala”, a gendered adjective that originates from Sanskrit. In Urdu, the ending sound of this word changes based on the gender and plurality of the associated noun. For example:

• Ek kaali kumeez hai. (There is a black shirt. – kumeez is feminine in Urdu)
• Ek kaala chushma hai. (There is black glasses. – chushma is masculine in Urdu)
• Chaar kaalay purday hain. (There are four black curtains. – purday are masculine-plural)

In some other South Asian languages such as Hindi and Punjabi, the word for black is the same, i.e., kaala.

Kaaluk is the noun for this adjective and refers to blackness or soot.

Cultural Significance: The word “kaala” in South Asian context represents power, mystery, spirituality, and occasionally misfortune. In Pakistani traditions, black is commonly worn at funerals and religious gatherings to signify respect and mourning. It’s also a popular choice for formal attire at weddings and celebrations, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.

The color is widely believed to offer protection, with practices like applying a “kaala teeka” (a black mark) to ward off the evil eye or using black threads to repel negative energies prevalent in South Asian countries, including India and Pakistan.

Despite its positive connotations, black can also evoke misfortune and fear, as reflected in expressions like kaala jaadu (black magic) and idioms like moonh kaala kerna (to blacken one’s face, meaning disgrace). Additionally, black has served as a powerful symbol of resistance, often worn during protests to convey solidarity or dissent.

Poetry and Literature: In poetry and literature, the color kaala holds deep metaphorical significance. It often symbolizes mystery, sorrow, and beauty, evoking feelings of sadness, longing, or even fascination. Black is commonly used to describe the darkness of night, the depths of the soul, or the complexities of emotions. In Urdu poetry, it is a symbol of intensity, frequently associated with both mournful beauty and the alluring yet unknown.

One of the most famous examples of kaala in Urdu poetry comes from the renowned poet Allama Iqbal. In his celebrated poem “Kaali Zulfon Kay Phunday,” Iqbal uses the image of kaali zulfon (black tresses) to convey the powerful yet tragic nature of love. The poem beautifully captures the bittersweet emotions of a lover drawn to the darkness of his beloved’s hair—a powerful metaphor for the pull of love, with all its beauty and potential sorrow:

“Kaali kaali zulfon kay phunday na daalo,
Humen zinda rehnay dou, ay husn vaalon!”
(Don’t trap us with the coils of your black hair, let us stay alive, oh people of beauty!)

Here, kaala serves as a metaphor for the enchanting yet potentially destructive power of love, highlighting its dual nature of beauty and despair. This duality is a common theme in Urdu poetry, where black often signifies both beauty and melancholy, mystery and danger.

The word kaala has been deeply embedded in Urdu culture, appearing in literature, poetry, and idiomatic expressions. Beyond its literal meaning, it conveys themes of mystery, beauty, and sometimes negativity. For example, Sufi mystics associate black with humility and divine surrender, reflecting the idea of surrendering oneself to a higher power. In descriptions of kaali zulfen (black hair) or kaali raat (dark night), black frequently evokes sorrow, mystery, or allure—an ever-present symbol of both beauty and complexity in Urdu art and literature.

Synonyms: Another common term for the color black is “siyaah”, a Persian-origin word. It is often used in poetic or metaphorical contexts to symbolize darkness or misfortune.

6. White: Sufaid (also spelled Safaid)

The Urdu word for “white” is “sufaid”, a non-gendered adjective that comes from Persian. In Urdu, the ending sound of this word remains the same regardless of the gender or number of the associated noun. For example:

• Ek sufaid billi hai. (There is a white (female) cat.)
• Ek sufaid billa hai. (There is a white (male) cat.)
• Chaar sufaid paanday hain. (There are four white pandas. – paanday are masculine-plural)

The word “sufaid” can also mean milky.

Sufaid-posh is a Persian-origin term used for someone who dresses in white clothing. It can symbolize a person who has the means to afford fine clothing, often refers to a middle-class individual or a white-collar worker. The term can also refer to someone who is respectable or dignified in society.

In some contexts, sufaid-posh represents virtue or purity, as the color white often symbolizes innocence, cleanliness, and spirituality in many cultures. This term is commonly used in literature and idiomatic expressions, referring to someone who is either well-off or embodies moral uprightness. So, whether it’s a man dressed in white or a middle-class person, sufaid-posh conveys a sense of respect and status.

Cultural Significance: The color sufaid holds strong cultural, spiritual, and symbolic meaning, particularly in South Asia, including Pakistan. It’s tied to purity, peace, and cleanliness. White is a prominent part of national symbols, like the white crescent and star on Pakistan’s flag, representing peace and harmony. White is also a color of choice for weddings and religious events, worn to convey both solemnity and joy.

Poetry and Literature: In literature and poetry, white often symbolizes innocence and divinity. For example, images of white roses or white doves evoke serenity and grace. However, white can also carry more complex meanings, like mourning or loss. In some cultures, it is worn , during funerals as a mark of respect for the departed.

7. Brown: Bhoora

The Urdu word for “brown” is “bhoora”, a commonly used gendered adjective that changes depending on the gender or plurality of the noun it describes. For example:

• Ek bhoori billi hai. (There is a brown (female) cat.)
• Ek bhoora kutta hai. (There is a brown (male) dog)
• Chaar bhooray ghoray hain. (There are four brown (male) horses.)

The origins of “bhoora” trace back to Sanskrit, where “bhur” referred to a reddish-brown or tawny shade. This word later found its way into Persian and eventually Urdu. Beyond color, “bhoora” can also describe someone very fair-skinned or something with a soil-like hue.

Cultural Significance: In agrarian societies like Pakistan and India, where land plays a central role in livelihoods and traditions, bhoora symbolizes grounding and simplicity, reflecting the deep connection to rural life.

Shades of brown are often seen in traditional attire, signifying modesty and practicality. Earthy tones are cherished in handwoven textiles like khaddar and ajrak, popular for daily wear and seasonal festivities. The color also holds a prominent place in South Asian interiors and crafts, appearing in wooden furniture, clay pottery, and natural dyes used in block printing. Beyond its practical uses, bhoora carries a sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of mud houses, earthen utensils, and the comforting aroma of chai—a cultural staple throughout the region. The word “bhoora” is deeply connected to nature and culture, frequently used to describe elements like soil, bark, or hair. Its earthy and warm associations lend it versatility in Urdu poetry, where it evokes feelings of nostalgia, simplicity, and connection to the natural world.

Poetry and Literature: While direct mentions of “bhoora” or “kutthai” in classical Urdu poetry are rare, their associated imagery—such as earthiness, warmth, and natural beauty—often appears in descriptions of rural landscapes, soil, and simplicity. In poetry, “bhoori mitti” (brown soil) is often used to symbolize a connection to one’s roots or the earth’s nurturing nature. A recurring theme in folk poetry is the bond between the land and its people. However, these colors are not frequently mentioned directly in poetry.

Synonyms: A commonly used synonym for “bhoora” is “kutthai” (also spelled katthai), which refers to a brown or catechu-like chocolaty shade, also derived from Sanskrit. Other poetic or contextual synonyms include “kustoori” (musk-like brown, used in literary works, and also spelled kastoori) and “khaaki” (dusty brown, often used for earthy tones or uniforms).

🌈 In the world of colors, each “rung” tells a unique story, reflecting the rich tapestry of culture, emotions, and history. Whether it’s the warmth of peela (yellow), the mystery of kaala (black), or the simplicity of bhoora (brown), every color adds its own hue to the vibrant canvas of life, connecting us to our roots, traditions, and the beauty around us.

What’s your favorite color, and why do you like it? Do you now know how to say it in Urdu? How do the colors you love make you feel? 😊 Colors are more than just shades – they carry meaning, stories, and a deep cultural connection. Embrace the colors, for they are the silent storytellers of our world. ✨