Word Meaning
राज
rāj
hinoun
Meaning
Rule, reign, governance, dominion, or kingdom.
Detailed Meaning
In this couplet, 'rāj' denotes imperial rule or political dominion, specifically referring to Western colonial authority ('afrangī kā rāj'). The poet contrasts the outer physical world, subject to foreign subjugation, with the inner world of the spirit, which remains untamed and free.
Etymology
Sanskrit rājya (राज्य) / rājan (राजन्), assimilated into Prakrit and modern Hindustani.
Usage
In Urdu and Indo-Persian poetic idiom, 'rāj' is often paired with themes of tyranny, sovereignty, or inner spiritual independence versus worldly power.
Examples
The soul remains free, untouched by foreign rule.
In the kingdom of love, only humility reigns.
Synonyms
हुकूमतशासनसल्तनतअमलदारी
Related Words
राजाराजधानीस्वराज