Word Meaning
निगार
nigaar
Meaning
Beloved, sweetheart; also a beautiful picture, portrait, or ornament.
Detailed Meaning
In Persian and classical Urdu poetry, 'nigaar' denotes both an artistic depiction (painting or idol) and the beloved herself as a masterpiece of beauty. In this couplet, it represents the indifferent beloved whose intrinsic elegance and rhythmic grace warrant adoration regardless of whether she returns love. The word highlights physical beauty and captivating charm.
Etymology
Persian 'nigār' (نگار), from the verb 'nigāshtan' (نگاشتن, to paint, draw, or write).
Usage
In ghazals, 'nigaar' frequently carries double entendre, playing on the beloved being both a living sweetheart and a painted, stone-hearted idol.
Examples
The sight of the nigaar left the lover completely spellbound.
No portrait can match the beauty of my heart's nigaar.