The World of Courtesans c8.104

c8.104

Certain standards of social etiquette were also expected from those who were appointed to the position of *nagarakas*. It was their duty to honour those who came to the *ghata* with gifts, flowers, scents and unguents. Making the acquaintance of those who were not *nagarakas* was considered to be an advantage. The relationship between the visitors, the performers and the *nagarakas* participating in the *ghata* was governed by the *gana* rules. Apparently these rules were the same as those followed by the *ganas* in the conduct of meetings. On the lines of the institution of *ghata* in the temple of Sarasvati, similar *ghatas* were organized in honour of other gods, bearing in mind the situation, the time and the country.