The World of Courtesans c8.136

c8.136

The *Kamasutra* also gives some important directions for the proper conduct of the meetings of the *goshthi*. It is ordained that a proper balance must be maintained between the languages used in the *goshthis*—Sanskrit and Prakrits were given equal preference in the discussions on literary topics. In the opinion of Vatsyayana the functions of a *goshthi* were literary and conducive to joy and any deviation from its avowed aims was considered to be boorish. A *goshthi* which was hated by the people or one that was indisciplined or one that cheated others was to be strictly avoided. On the other hand, Vatsyayana advises people to join a *goshthi* which pleased the people and which concentrated on amusements alone.