Life and Conditions of the People of Hindustan (1200–1550 A.D.) c7.s5.22

c7.s5.22

From Malwa comes evidence not only of comforts and luxury but also of elaborate refinements. Consider, for instance, a description of *Tarikh Muzaffar Shahi*, regarding the decoration of Mandu on the occasion of Muzaffar Shah’s visit. All royal buildings were profusely decorated. In some places jewelled thrones were set up and imitation gardens were laid around them. These gardens were full of trees and fruits all worked with metals and jewels and precious stones. Special experts were employed to decorate the city. On both sides of the market an avenue of trees made with wax was laid which were lined with richly scented silks. The minstrels and dancers were entertaining all over the place, reciting eulogies in honour of the Sultan of Mandu and the distinguished visitor, the Sultan of Gujarat. In some places, confectioners and sweetmeat-sellers offered every visitor sweets, sherbets, and betel-leaves which were served on gold plate.¹ The main lines of these public entertainments are identical with those at Delhi