Women of Substance: A journey through the Devadasis culture in India
The Devadasis culture was a prominent practice in many Southern parts of India centuries ago where the “Dasis(females) ” were served to Devs(Gods and their Wives ).
The Dasis were basically the courteans who performed dance, music and other chores within the palaces or outdoors. Such Devadasis were invited for essential rituals, royal coronations and other ceremonies including at the time of worship in temples.
The cultural practice of Devdasis was a regular practice and the inscriptions found in many temples in South India common practice in Vishnu temples dating back to A.D 966 reveal that the word Devdasi was a terminology used for talented women who belonged to lower sections of the society
The Devadasis were sophisticated, intellectual and respected in the community as they were the epitome of culture, arts and were “married to the gods”. The Devadasis during the Dwapar Yuga were served to gods and their wives including the imperial almighty. Even Lord Krishna were gifted 1001 virgin Devadasis when he was welcomed by Dhritshartra to parley the negotiations between the Kauravas and Pandavas before the war began
The concept, later was transformed to Devadasis who would not please the king and their wives anymore , but dedicate their lives to the temples by participating in music, dance forms, art and culture, but are married to gods.