Word Meaning
जी-साहब
ji-sahab
Meaning
Respected sir; an honorific title used in polite address.
Detailed Meaning
A courteous compound created by combining the Indic honorific 'ji' with the Perso-Arabic title 'sahab'. In Urdu ghazal, poets frequently append this polite title to their own pen-name (takhallus) to achieve a conversational, affectionate, or self-ironizing tone. In this couplet, Mir addresses himself as 'Mir-ji-sahab' while recounting his loss of senses and helplessness in love.
Etymology
Hindustani compound of 'ji' (Sanskrit 'jīva') and 'sahab' (Arabic 'ṣāḥib', companion/master).
Usage
In the maqta (closing verse) of a ghazal, poets often pair this address with their pen-name for reflective or ironic self-address.
Examples
Listen carefully, respected sir, to the voice of this broken heart.
Why have you chosen silence, respected sir, on this sorrowful night?