Mahi-Maratib : The Order of the Fish ("fish dignity" in Persian and Arabic), an honorary badge or dignity, said to signify youth, bravery, perseverance and strength. Reputedly founded by Khusru Parviz, King of Persia (591-628 AD) of Sasanian dynasty, and thence passed to the Moghul Emperors of Delhi. This fish insignia was considered one of the highest honours, granted only to those nobles above the rank of 6000 Zat (The Zat referred to the number of troops maintained by the mansabdar) and to highly valued allies of the Mughal sovereign. It is applied with three fins, a knop-form finial and iron teeth, engraved with lotus motifs and fish scales, and with a red textile tongue. The figure of the fish (possibly a Labeo rohita in Moghul India), would have been attached behind with a long textile streamer which became inflated as the wind blew through the fish's mouth. This standard was fixed on to the top of a long pole and carried in important processions or into battle by a member of the nobleman’s retinue, who would have been riding either a camel or an elephant. The standard would thus have towered high above the ranks on foot. The head was accompanied by two spheres also fixed on poles. Together the head and the spheres were known as the 'fish and dignities' (mahi-o-maratib).