Word Meaning
मुग़-बचे
mugh-bache
Meaning
A young cupbearer or tavern boy; child of a Zoroastrian wine-seller.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting the child of a 'Mugh' (a Zoroastrian or tavern-keeper), the word refers to a handsome young wine-server or attendant in a tavern. In classical poetry, it embodies intoxicating youth, earthly beauty, and the dispenser of ecstasy. In the cited verse, these affluent and carefree tavern attendants are juxtaposed against the destitute, neglected dervish.
Etymology
Persian compound of 'mugh' (Magian / Zoroastrian wine-merchant) and 'bachah' (child / youth).
Usage
A frequent trope in Persian and Urdu ghazal imagery, often paired with the 'pir-e-mughan' to contrast natural, uninhibited youth with rigid theological piety.
Examples
The youthful cupbearer poured wine with carefree charm.
The tavern boy ignored the cries of the wounded lover.