The World of Courtesans c11.89

c11.89

Kshemendra (c. 900-1065) is one of the most versatile writers of Kashmir. He belonged to a very affluent family and spent large sums on religious endowments. He was a gifted poet and a literateur. He cherished the company of cultured people and was fond of music, dancing and drama. Kshemendra is chiefly remembered for his satires which are a direct criticism of the contemporary society. He ridicules the religious teachers and the popular religious cults of his time. Government officers, prostitutes and their clients, rakes and other low characters also come in for their share of criticism In depicting prostitutes, rakes and *goshthis*, Kshemendra follows the pattern set by Damodaragupta in the *Kuttanimatam*. The only difference is that the picture presented in his works is fuller. It is evident from his descriptions that the well recognized institutions of ancient India had already deteriorated in mediaeval times. The most humorous of Kshemendra's satires is *Samayamatrika* (the Breviary of a Bawd). It deals with the life and adventures of a prostitute.