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)

284 NOU-ROZE.

service of most great men in Native cities;—
I should tell you they have not the benefit
of published almanacks as in England,—and
according to the hour of the day or night when
the sun passes into that particular sign, so are
they directed in the choice of a colour to be
worn in their garments on this Eade : if at mid-
night, the colour would be dark puce, almost a
black; if at mid-day, the colour would be the
brightest crimson. Thus to the intermediate hours
are given a shade of either colour applicable to
the time of the night or the day when the sun
enters the sign Aries; and whatever be the
colour to suit the hour of Nou-Roze, all classes
wear the day's livery, from the King to the
meanest subject in the city. The King, on his
throne, sits in state to receive congratulations
and nuzzas from his nobles, courtiers and de-
pendants. " Mabaarukh Nou-Roze!" (May the
New Year be fortunate !) are the terms of salu-
tation exchanged by all classes of society, the
King himself setting the example. The day is
devoted to amusements, a public breakfast at the
palace, sending presents, exchanging visits, &c.