Word Meaning
रुफ़क़ा
rufaqa
Meaning
Companions, comrades, friends, or associates (plural of rafiq).
Detailed Meaning
'Rufaqa' is the Arabic broken plural of 'rafiq', referring to companions, fellow travelers, or intimate associates. In this couplet, the poet laments that his circle of dear companions dispersed after his absence, comparing them to blossoms in a bouquet that fell apart without the binding blade of grass.
Etymology
Arabic broken plural of 'rafīq' (رفيق), from the root r-f-q (ر-ف-ق), related to companionship, gentle accompaniment, and friendliness.
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, it is frequently used to evoke the nostalgic remembrance or melancholic dispersion of the poet's inner circle of friends.
Examples
The journey was made bearable by loyal rufaqa.
After the gathering broke up, none of his rufaqa remained.