Life and Conditions of the People of Hindustan (1200–1550 A.D.) c7.s4.t1.10

c7.s4.t1.10

B. Conversation.—In a formal gathering, one was not supposed to begin a conversation with someone else unless spoken to. Even when the difficulty had been overcome, the conversation did not progress beyond certain well-defined limits. It was brief and pleasant. The speaker refrained from making any references to his own achievements or generosity. The conversation was carried on in a soft and sweet tone. Scrupulous care was taken to avoid offensive remarks, for as their popular saying warned them ‘an indiscreet word often leads to very awkward complications’. No indelicate language was used in any circumstances. Vulgar jokes or rude remarks were not replied to and loud laughter was avoided. In a word, short and refreshing were the watchwords of conversation.³