The latter are their patrons and superiors, to whom they look for a livelihood.

Before the introduction of a currency in the rural tracts (an event of the last fifty to a hundred years) the village artisans and menials were supported by contributions of grain from the cultivators.

They still all receive presents, consisting of a sowing-basketful of grain at seed-time and one or two sheaves at harvest.

The former is known as _Bij phutni_, or 'The breaking of the seed,' and the latter as _Khanvar,_ or 'That which is left' Sometimes, after threshing, the menials are each given as much grain as will fill a winnowing-fan.

When the peasant has harvested his grain, all come and beg from him.