Gold Dust of Begum Sultans

Dr. Seema Bhalla

Excerpt from the book – “The word of his marriage was the buzz in the servant quarters. Mumtaz Jehan, though, was not taken into confidence by her mother and grandmother, a fact which she always held against them. ………..“Mumtaz Jehan, I have an idea! Since the household is full of marriage buzz, why not arrange a marriage for Farah Naaz?”

“Farah Naaz. What are you talking about?”

“I just named your favourite blue eyed doll Farah Naaz”, he said laughing, relieved to see Mumtaz Jehan smiling. With Mansoor joining in, the whole household became involved in the wedding preparations. Elaborate Farshi ghararas, cholis and heavily embellished dupattas were made for Farh Naaz . Silversmiths were called in to make small utensils from Paandans
to pateelis of silver. Jewellers were called to make jewellery sets including the jhoomar and teeka. Carpenters were engaged to make furniture for the doll house. All the Mighlanis of the household were kept busy stitching quilts, pillows and bed linen for the trousseau. Whatever royal brides needed, was produced for the wedding on a doll scale.” –