Such programmes were a status
symbol and mostly held among the rich class.
Huge farmhouses with palatial gardens used to
be ideal venues. Whole gardens were adorned
with choice sofas and carpets in a circle, the
air used to be engulfed with the intoxicating
fragrances of roses and mogras thus creating
an ideal atmosphere for the evening. Wining
and dining formed an integral part of the programme.
With wine flowing freely, frayed nerves were
calmed and a carefree attitude cultivated for
the evening ahead.
Dancers were specially summoned
from far off places like Lahore and Lucknow,
renowned for their dansueses. These performances
were considered to the elite events where some
went to the extent of showering gold guinea
coins (costing Rs. 25/- in those days) in a
bid to show their financial prowess. These playgrounds
often formed platforms for forming relationships
and many a seth in Sind was lured by the grace
and charm of the dancers who went on to become
a keep or mistress who kept the seth entertained
in his twilight years.