कालबद

Meaning

Body, physical frame, mold, or inanimate form

Detailed Meaning

'Kaalbad' denotes the physical body, frame, or shell devoid of a soul until animated by life. In Ghalib's couplet, it refers to the inanimate form of a painted figure on a wall ('surat-e-deewar') which gains soul and animation upon hearing the beloved's speech. Classical poets often contrast 'jaan' (spirit) with 'kaalbad' (lifeless shell).

Etymology

Persian (کالبد kālbad), meaning body, frame, or mold.

Usage

In classical Urdu ghazal, it frequently symbolizes the material, mortal frame waiting to be animated by divine love or the beloved's presence.

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Related Words