Word Meaning
फंदे
phande
Meaning
Snare, trap, loop, or noose used for capture or entangling.
Detailed Meaning
Literally referring to a noose, knot, or snare for catching prey. In mystical and classical poetry, it metaphorically represents religious dogmas, outer rituals, or worldly entanglements that bind a person without conveying true spiritual substance. In this couplet by Ghalib, it describes the outward traps of religious symbols—the Muslim rosary and the Hindu sacred thread—arguing that true virtue lies in loyalty rather than ritual entrapment.
Etymology
From Sanskrit 'पाश' (pāśa) / Prakrit 'फांद' (phānda) or related Indo-Aryan root denoting binding or snaring.
Usage
Frequently paired with the beloved's tresses (ज़ुल्फ़ का फंदा) or religious rituals to denote entrapment and captivation in classical ghazals.
Examples
trapped in the snare of curls
escaping the worldly noose