The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c17.70

c17.70

In spite of his devotion to duty and religion, Harṣa maintained the traditional pomp and glory of sovereignty. Even while he was on tour, his porters carried his golden foot-stools, water-pots, cups, spittoons and baths. There were bearers of kitchen appurtenances with goats attached to thongs of pig-skin, etc.² The royal dress comprised a snow-white lower garment with short silk-threads, a bejewelled girdle, and a thin upper garment spangled with worked stars.² There was a certain manner of beating the drums which was a royal monopoly and could be used by no one else.¹ The tradition of keeping women attendants was maintained. There were female chowrie-bearers and shampooers.² Eunuchs were also employed at the court and palace.³ Royal ladies had their own attendants.⁴ Court festivities sometimes exceeded all bounds of decorum. Bāṇa's description of celebrations on the birth of Harṣa does not make very pleasant reading.⁵