Meer Hassan Ali, B.: Observations on the Mussulmauns of India: descriptive of their manners, customs, habits, and religious opinions ; made during a twelve years residence in their immediate Society (Band 1) (London, 1832)

SELF-INFLICTED PRIVATIONS. 43

likewise, in a stern, systematic, line of priva-
tions, during the period of Mahurrum; no one
is obliged, by any law, or command; it is vo-
luntary abstinence, on the part of each indivi-
dual—they impose it on themselves, out of pure
pity and respect for their Emaums' well-remem-
bered sufferings. Every thing which consti-
tutes comfort, luxury, or even convenience at
other times, on these occasions are rigidly laid
aside. The pallungh and the charpoy (the two
descriptions of bedsteads in general use), on
which the females love to lounge for some hours
in the day and night, are removed from their
standings, and, in lieu of this comfort, they take
their rest on a common date mat, on the floor.
The musnud, and all its cushioned luxuries,
give place, on this occasion, to the simply
matted floor. The indulgence in choice dain-
ties, at other times so necessary to their hap-
piness, is now foregone, and their meal limited,
throughout Mahurrum, to the coarsest food,—
such as barley bread, rice and peas boiled
together (called kutcher), without even the usual
additions to make it palatable ketcherie, as