Word Meaning
क़लंदरों
qalandaron
Meaning
Free-spirited Sufi mystics or dervishes who disregard worldly conventions.
Detailed Meaning
In Sufism and classical poetry, a qalandar is an itinerant mendicant or ascetic who lives free of worldly social pretenses and religious orthodoxy. In this couplet, 'qalandaron' refers to these fearless, spiritually liberated souls whose speech consistently mirrors the genuine conviction of their hearts. It evokes moral bravery, absolute authenticity, and defiance of tyranny or fear.
Etymology
Arabic/Persian 'qalandar' (of ancient Central Asian or Persian derivation), referring to a wandering dervish of an antinomian Sufi order.
Usage
A frequent motif in Urdu poetry, especially in Iqbal, personifying uncompromising integrity and spiritual majesty over earthly kingship.
Examples
The way of the qalandars is total detachment from worldly power.
A single glance of the qalandars changes destinies.