The World of Courtesans c13.29

c13.29

In spring when the mango and other trees blossomed and the waters of the lakes, rivers and pools were cold and limpid, the king went with the inmates of the harem and his courtesans to the forest for a picnic. They diverted themselves by picking up flowers and fruits. They penetrated deep in the forest, the women running helter-skelter and the king following them. After this game the party rested under a tree, drank wine, chewed betel leaves etc. The king himself tied *venis* to their hair and everybody was given bouquets. This picnic is technically known as *vana-krida*.