Palkeen

Palkeen, also known as a palanquin, is a type of closed litter or sedan chair. It is traditionally carried by a team of bearers, typically four to eight people, who lift and transport it on their shoulders. Palkeen were historically used for carrying people, especially royalty, nobility, or honored guests, over long distances or through difficult terrain.

The construction of a palkeen varies, but it generally consists of a covered compartment with a door or opening, mounted on two long poles. These poles allow the bearers to carry the palkeen. The interior could be furnished with cushions and other comforts, offering a degree of privacy and protection from the elements for the occupant. The design and materials used often reflected the status and wealth of the owner.

Palkeen were particularly prevalent in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. Their use was common for centuries, serving as a primary mode of transportation for those who could afford it. The practice declined with the advent of modern transportation methods like carriages, trains, and automobiles. While largely obsolete today, palkeen are sometimes still seen in ceremonial contexts or as cultural heritage displays. The word "palkeen" itself is derived from the Sanskrit word "pālikā," meaning a small bed or cot.