Page:The Aristocracy of Southern India.djvu/41

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H. H. The Nawab of Banganapalli. 27

Mohammedan population, which lasted until 2-30 p.m. At 3 P.M., the Nawab held a Durbar, which was attended by all the nobles of the Court, and the representatives of the agricultural community. At 5-30, a congratulatory address was read in English and Hindus- tani, and received with cordial cheers. This was followed by prayers in the Durbar Hall for the long life and pros- perity of Her Majesty, the Queen Empress. After this, followed the release of eight prisoners from the State Jail, and a reduction in the sentences of four others. This was succeeded by a salute of 31 guns from the ramparts of the Fort, and a distribution of attar and betel. From 6 p.m., till the dawn of the following day, 'the palace, public buildings, and the houses generally were illuminated with coloured and plain lights, whilst fireworks, music, and dancing continued during the night. On the morning of the 17th, a distribution of food was made to about 8,000 persons, including visitors to the festival from the outlying districts ; and at night a similar feasting took place, and there was another display of fireworks. During both the celebration days, prayers were offered in the temples and mosques for Her Majesty's long life and prosperity, and a distribution of alms was made to the poor. The Nawab defrayed a^l the charges.

The Nawab was made a Member of the Central Committee of the Imperial Institute in 1887, when 4he following correspondence took place between the Chief Secretary to the Government of Madi'as, and the Nawab: —

"Sir, I am directed to inform you that, since the receipt of your letter expressing willingness to serve on the Central Committee of the Imperial Institute, and to