It was a fine privilege for me to meet Greta M. Palmer when she entered into the main gate of Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur before a few years. At the very moment, she impressed me well because she possessed in her personality a fine combination of a great zeal of research aptitude and a keen desire of knowing more and more about her minor project of specialisation. Although her subject appears to be very narrow and limited, but it surrounds the wide range of study and investigation in its deep-rooted canvass. The present book is an excellent output of her findings regarding the elephant trappings and justifies its title 'Jhools in the Dust' in all the means.

Elephants have been regarded as the 'symbols' of dignity and prosperity for the kings since ancient periods. They have been utilised in 'Peace and War'. Palmer has a friendly attachment towards them and, therefore, she has picked out a peculiar point of discussion regarding the Jhools, Howdahs, Seeri and other accoutre used in the decoration of the elephant. Her study is mainly based on the equipment and available materials collected at the Museums of the erstwhile States of Rajasthan. In a nutshell, she has made a fine approach towards her subject-matter and left no stone unturned to exhibit all the information and facts in her intelligent enterprise and substantial balance of its representation. Her travel and tours besides the various parts of the country have helped and guided her together the important information also.

The present book covers 47,000 words in length and contains a good selection of coloured photographs. Silver Howdah presented to Maharaja Jaswant Singh, the details of a Jhool, Pounchi, Payal and Patara etc. It indicates the accumulation of several visits to India done by the writer from time to time. In her tours, she availed the opportunity of meeting with the elderly mahavats, Jhools makers and decorators of the elephants at various places who obliged her in giving her the full details of their jobs and achievements. Greta has included all her findings in this Volume also.

During her several visits, undersigned had came in contact and now she is, I consider, not less than family member of mine.

This book is like a small viewing window through which you can see and admire her detailed interesting anecdotes about relevant details of elephant glorious traditions.

The book has been written in the clear-cut language and lucid style. It would create a feeling of understanding the mystery behind the 'Jhools in the Dust' and inspire the readers to acknowledge the traditions of the elephant trapping in India.

I welcome the publication of this treatise and congratulate Greta M.Palmer for her valuable contribution.