Word Meaning
सनम-कदा
sanam-kada
Meaning
An idol-temple or pagoda; metaphorically, the heart or the illusory world.
Detailed Meaning
Literally translating to a temple or abode of idols, the term is compounded from Arabic 'sanam' (idol) and Persian '-kada' (dwelling). In classical poetry, it frequently denotes an assembly of beauty, the deceptive material world, or the heart harbored with false attachments. In Ghalib's verse, it forms the metaphor 'pindār kā sanam-kada', describing the edifice of self-absorbed pride that the lover must dismantle to tread the path of self-effacing devotion.
Etymology
Arabic صنم (sanam, idol) + Persian کده (-kada, place, house).
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'sanam-kada' is frequently contrasted with the Ka'aba or mosque to praise true, unpretentious passion over orthodox dogmatism.
Examples
sanam-kada-e-dahr (the idol-house of the world)
sanam-kada-e-dil (the temple of the heart)