Just as the army of Alexander marched back after reaching your border, I wish we also had returned unsuccessful from your gates. - Altaf Hussain Hali

Whither has gone the superiority of the Muslims,
In wealth, wisdom and learning?
Whither has gone that fixity of purpose,
That knew no barrier of land or sea?
Whither has gone that vigour and where are those sturdy arms?

Like many of the north-Indian ashraf classes, Hali too considered Muslims to be the descendants of foreign conquerors... 'We were fire O Hind', he exclaimed, 'you've turned us into ash.'...

Farewell, Hindusthan, land of eternal spring, for long have we, as foreign guests, stayed here and enjoyed your hospitality.