To celebrate a Maharaja's birthday, the reception of a notable, or festival time in the streats of Benares, the Holy city, elephants parade through the Bazaars. Their Howdahs, (special chair for sitting atop the elephants) are gaily decorated with velvets and silks brocaded with gold and silver threads. Howdahs, for the Maharajas are usually made of solid silver with lavish pure gold trimmings. The elephants ankles, neck, sides and back are ornamentally adorned with shining brass bells. For centuries, elephants have worn bells dating back to the time when Rajput Maharajas or Mogul Emperors put to right with each other for sport. The Mahout can always locate the elephant by his bell tied to him.