The World of Courtesans c4.25

c4.25

Dalbhya apparently enjoyed storytelling for he narrated yet another story about the origin and functions of prostitutes. According to him, in the war between the *Devas* and *Asuras* innumerable demons lost their lives, and their women-folk were raped and married to robbers. Indra then advised the fallen women to work as prostitutes in the king's palace or in the service of temples (*devakula*) so that the kings and princes would become their patrons. Those who visited them with fees (*shulka*) would alone receive their attention The girls were advised to offer to the Brahmans cattle, grain and gold on auspicious days. On the Sundays falling on the *Hasta*, *Pushya* or *Punarvasu* *nakshtras*, they were expected to bathe themselves with perfumed water and worship Kama touching various parts of the body including the organs of sex. After that the Brahmans were to be offered perfumes and even the enjoyment of their bodies. This was to continue for thirteen months and in the last month they were expected to offer the Brahmans furnished beds, costly clothes and ornaments, flowers and perfumes etc. The gifts were to be accompanied by chanting the following *mantra*: "O Vishnu! I do not see any difference between Kama and Kesava, as you never allow Kamala to leave you, likewise O Chief of the Gods, accept my body!" Golden images of Kama were then offered to the Brahmans. From that day onwards any Brahman visiting courtesans on a Sunday was expected to be admitted free.