Storia do Mogor 258.6

258.6

The father-in-law regales all the guests in the same way as the Brahmans do. Next day they carry the newly-married couple in a palanquin, which is followed by the relations and all the guests, to the strains of the orchestra above described (III. 127). It may be here remarked that all the courtesans of the place form one of the leading attractions of the festival, these women of no character bearing the title of 'Servants of God' (a somewhat curious name). These women walk close to the palanquin, and are decked out with silver and with gold. In this order the procession passes through all the streets of the town, stopping en route at the door of any friend or relation, from whom presents are received, consisting of fruit or some pieces of cloth. At last they disperse, and everybody goes home. On the third day the wife rubs oil on the husband's head, and in the same way the husband on the wife's. Then the two together, sheltered under one cloth, which is carried above their heads, go to some river or pond and bathe. The cleansing over, they return home with the same ceremony displayed in going round the town.