The maqta (from Arabic: , literally 'the place of cutting' or 'ending'; ; ; ; ; ) is a classical prosodic term referring to the concluding verse or section of a poem.
In the ghazal traditions of Persian, Turkic, and Urdu literature, the maqta specifically designates the final bayt (couplet) of the poem. It serves as the structural and conceptual opposite of the matla' (the opening couplet).
A defining characteristic of the maqta in these specific traditions is the inclusion of the poet's takhallus (pen name), which the poet weaves into the verse, often to address themselves, make a concluding statement, or add a personal signature to the work.
A sher by Mir Taqi Mir:
Mir in neem baaz aankhon mein
Saari masti sharaab ki see hai
Another by Mirza Ghalib:
Kaba kis munh se jaaoge Ghalib
sharm tum ko magar nahiN aati
Another by Nasir kazmi:
Itefaqaat zamaana bhi ajab hai Nasir
Aaj woh dekh rahe hai, ko suna karte the