Persian · noun · Iqbal's Emblems

Shikra

शिकरा
said shik-ra
Meaning

A small sparrowhawk used in falconry, swift and sharp in the hunt.

Usage & notes

The shikra belongs to the family of hunting birds that figure alertness, decisiveness and the predatory self. Within the falcon-world imagery it represents the quick, fearless striker rather than the sheltered, dependent songbird.