Word Meaning
शमला
shamlā
Meaning
The loose hanging end or tail of a turban, denoting dignity or piety.
Detailed Meaning
A shamla refers to the loose end of a turban left hanging down the back or shoulder, traditionally worn by scholars, sheikhs, and people of religious standing as a mark of authority. In this satirical couplet, the poet derides the Sheikh by cynically likening his turban-tail to the span-long tail of a donkey. It serves as a visual foil to expose superficial religiosity and pretension.
Etymology
Arabic shamlatan (شملة), from the root sh-m-l, referring to a wrap, cloak, or the hanging tail-piece of a turban.
Usage
In classical Urdu satire, the shamla is frequently referenced to mock the hypocrisy and self-importance of orthodox preachers.
Examples
shamla-e-dastār (the tail of the turban)
Do not be deceived by the Sheikh's lofty shamla.