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Old 15th June 2007, 12:16 AM   #11
Jim McDougall
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Route 66
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As to colour (color ) significance I found this.....

...."The saffron colour is considered auspicious by Hindus. This color has a special significance to the Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs. Among the Sikhs it is considered to be a militant colour signifying a fight against injustice. Saffron coloured triangular flag is considered to be a religious symbol.. This flag is seen flying atop temples (Mandirs) and Gurudwaras."...

This is colour linked to religion, interestingly Green has similar meaning to Muslims. I can find no reference to colours that represented region/ kingdom alliance/Ruler or other belief 'criteria'.



Hi David,
Nice work on finding the data on the colors! I just recalled another great source "Islamic Arms and Armour of Mughal India" by Haider. There are many outstanding color plates of mounted warriors which clearly illustrate the accoutrements and colors and there are plates showing the pennons as well. The green is as you note, a very sacred color in Islam as I understand. I cannot think of regional or other geopolitical color symbolism as applied especially to scabbards. I would presume Rajput or Sikh associations with the khanda in this case, recalling of course the Mahratta as well.

Although it sounds like extra work on your scabbard, it appears you're well on the right track, and it will be worthwhile.

Keep us posted!

All the best,
Jim
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