बदनाम

Meaning

Infamous, of ill repute, disgraced, or disreputable.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu poetry, 'badnām' denotes someone marked by public disrepute, often due to their passion, drinking, or disregard for orthodox social expectations. In Ghalib's couplet, it serves as an ironic and self-aware acknowledgment of his notorious lifestyle and habits, contrasting lightheartedly with his acknowledged poetic genius.

Etymology

Persian compound composed of 'bad' (bad, ill) + 'nām' (name, reputation).

Usage

In the ghazal tradition, being 'badnām' is often embraced as a badge of honor by the lover or non-conformist free thinker against religious hypocrisy.

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Related Words