In today’s episode of creative arts, we are going to give you a closer look into the lives of the Devadasis.

This tale dates back centuries from present time. Between the 6th and the 13th centuries, the life of young Indian girls would get tangled amongst the responsibilities of being the wife of the deity (God). The one’s chosen for this role were considered auspicious as they were literally married to the God himself and were to be treated not much less than a Goddess herself.

So, what does the word ‘devadasi’ denote?

The Devadasi is a Sanskrit term which means wife of Deva (God).

They were members of a community of women who were considered to be given in marriage to Devas (God), meaning that they could therefore not marry any ‘mortal’. Devadasi had a high rank and dignity in society and were exceptionally affluent as they were seen as the protectors of the arts.

After the ‘marriage’ ceremony they were required to devote themselves to the responsibilities of taking care of all the small details centering the deity. This meant they had to look after the temples, perform daily puja, offer the deities with food and entertainment and much more.

They were also involved in singing classical songs, dancing Indian artistic traditions such as Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kuchipuri to the deities, teaching music and dance to other young girls besides carrying on and developing the tradition of classical music and dance.

Where did this all start?

The tradition of Devadasi culture can be traced back to as early as the 6th century, particularly in southern parts of India during the reigns of the Cholas, Chelas, and Pandyas. They were well treated and respected, and held a high social status in the society.

The women who were chosen to become devadasi were accorded two great honors: first, they were to be treated as if they were the goddess Lakshmi herself, because they were literally married to the deity, and second, they were to be honored because they were considered to be “those great women who (could) control natural human impulses, their five senses, and submit themselves completely to the deity.”

Anything unusual about the Devadasis?

Considering that they were ‘married’ to the deities, and therefore could not marry any ‘mortal’, there were quite a few unusual facts about these fervent goddesses.

Even so, they were free to choose partners, from among married and unmarried men alike. These relationships could be long and stable, or just for a short period of time. But in no way were these women economically dependent on their partners and because of their financial problems they became mistresses of royal and rich men.

What was the result of the unusual culture?

This led to the religious prostitution in temples of India which continues till date. The devadasis were exploited by the rich, powerful and upper-class people. Furthermore, their economic needs did not permit them to leave this practice and hence were driven to the valley of prostitution.

And their children?

Any girl child born from that union was also dedicated to the temple and boys born were trained as musicians.

Moreover, the children of devadasis had equal rights of inheritance, an unusual practice among Hindus.

Present-day situation?

At present, Devadasis are nothing more than sex slaves or child prostitutes who are dedicated to temples when they are as young as four or five years old.

To conclude,

The Devadasi system was formally outlawed in all of India in 1988, although some Devadasis still practice the system illegally. Between the rapid advancement of time and thought bubbles, the Devadasis still hold a strong significance in ancient Indian history.

Written By- Zannatul Shariar Audri

Edited By- Abiya Bashar