Life and Conditions of the People of Hindustan (1200–1550 A.D.) c6.s1.18

c6.s1.18

⁵ I.K., V, 66. For a description of Khattee, compare Tod, III, 1563 :— ‘These pits or trenches are fixed on elevated dry spots, their size being according to the nature of the soil. All the preparations they undergo are the incineration of certain vegetable substances and lining the sides and bottom with wheat or barley stubble. The grain is then deposited in the pit, covered over with straw, and a terrace of earth, about eighteen inches in height, and projecting in front beyond the orifice of the pit, is raised over it. This is secured with a coating of clay and cow-dung which resists even the monsoon and is renewed as the torrents injure it. Thus the grain may remain for years without injury while the heat which is extricated checks germination, and deters rats and white ants. Masalik-ul-absar, however, notes that the colour of the grain underwent a change through long storage.