Word Meaning
सई
sa'i
Meaning
Effort, endeavor, striving, or attempt.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'sa'i' denotes deliberate exertion, endeavor, or an earnest attempt to achieve something. In this couplet by Ghalib, it refers to the well-meaning yet futile efforts and sympathetic interventions of friends to heal the lover's grief. The poet suggests that such endeavors are pointless, as inner torment and self-inflicted wounds will inevitably outpace their attempts to bring relief.
Etymology
Arabic سَعْي (saʿy), meaning 'to strive, run, walk briskly, or exert effort'.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'sa'i' often appears in compounds denoting earnest yet tragically unsuccessful attempts, such as striving in love or healing incurable sorrows.
Examples
sa'i-e-be-fayada (futile effort)
sa'i-e-natamaam (incomplete striving)