Alankaar: Enhancing Indian Poetry with Figures of Speech

Alankaar: Enhancing Poetry with Figures of Speech

Alankaar, a Sanskrit term, refers to the figures of speech or literary devices used in Indian literature, particularly in poetry. These devices not only enrich the language but also add depth to the meaning and emotions conveyed in the verses. In this article, we'll explore the different types of Alankaar and witness their beauty through various examples in poetry.

Types of Alankaar

1. Alamkara: The term "Alamkara" originates from Sanskrit, meaning "decoration" or "ornament." This specific type of Alankaar refers to the general figures of speech used in Indian literature.

2. Vyangya: This Alankaar involves the comparison of two things that are unrelated in essence but share some common characteristics. For example, a poet might compare the moon to a mirror, emphasizing their reflective qualities.

3. Vivada: Vivada is a dispute or argument presented in poetry. It's typically used to explore different perspectives and raise thought-provoking questions.

4. Tatpurusha: This type of Alankaar is a compound word where the second element modifies the first one. The modification can be of significance, quality, or action. For instance, a poet might describe a ruthless king as "Chandanavadhana" (Chandan signifying sandalwood and "vadhana" meaning destroyer), emphasizing the image of a cruel and powerful monarch.

5. Dhatu: Dhatu Alankaar involves the use of a base word (dhatu) along with its derivatives, forming a compound word. For example, a poet might use the word "Madhura" (sweetness) to describe a person's speech, implying that their words are pleasant and appealing.

6. Samasa: Also known as compound word or composite word, Samasa refers to the joining of two or more words to create a single unit with a specific meaning. For instance, a poet might describe the sun as "Dhushakara" (dhusha meaning "glowing" and "kara" meaning "face"), emphasizing the sun's radiant nature.

7. Yamaka: This Alankaar involves the repetition of words, phrases, or verses in a poetic work. For example, a poet might write a verse about a field and then repeat it with minor alterations to emphasize its beauty and significance.

8. Dvandva: Dvandva Alankaar refers to the use of a compound word in which two different words are joined together to form a single unit. For example, a poet might describe a relationship as "Shanti-Rasa" (Shanti meaning peace and Rasa meaning flavor), emphasizing the harmonious and enjoyable nature of the union.

9. Upama: Upama is a figure of speech in which two things are compared using the words "as" or "like." For instance, a poet might compare a woman's beauty to the blooming lotus flower, emphasizing her grace, elegance, and purity.

10. Slesa: This Alankaar refers to a playful, witty, or clever comparison between two things. For example, a poet might compare a man's beard to a broom, implying that he's constantly sweeping away troubles.

Examples of Alankaar in Poetry

1. Upama: Kalidasa, in his work "Meghaduta," compares the wind to a messenger, delivering the poet's message to his beloved in the Himalayas.

2. Samasa: In "Mahabharata," the character of Bheeshma describes the "Shanti-Rasa" (peace-flavor) of a specific region, emphasizing its harmonious nature.

3. Alamkara: Rabindranath Tagore, in his poem "Gitanjali," extensively uses Alamkara to convey emotions and enhance the beauty of the verses.

4. Dvandva: In "The Ramayana," the characters of Rama and Sita are described as "Shri-Rang" (prosperity-color), emphasizing their virtuous and radiant nature.

5. Yamaka: Amir Khusrau, in his "Qawwali" (Sufi devotional song), uses repetition to emphasize the beauty and significance of a specific verse, highlighting the unity and harmony of the universe.

These are just a few examples of Alankaar used in Indian poetry and literature. By incorporating these figures of speech, poets can enrich their verses, add depth to their meanings, and enhance the emotions conveyed in their works.