The World of Courtesans c10.161

c10.161

The stage manager in the beginning recites two invocatory verses to Shiva and Kama. Then he bows to the audience and praises Shyamilaka for the pains he has tken in composing the burlesque. He announces with firmness: "Away with ministers and saints stealthy as a cat or a crane! Let loafers (*dindika*), jesters and rakes (*vita*) remain; may the assemblies of sharpers (*dhurta*) ever thirst for drinks! Hermits do not attain heaven by their loud wails; if one is destined to attain heaven, then laughter and mirth will not be an impediment! Therefore, let intelligent men forsake their sour looks and laugh wholeheartedly."