The World of Courtesans c8.186

c8.186

Vatsyayana, however, states that money ought not to be the only guiding principle of her actions. While searching for rich clients, a courtesan is advised to win over lovers known for their virtues and accomplishments. This should be done for the sake of fame and material prosperity. Scions of an illustrious family, learned men well-versed in the rituals of many faiths, poets, eloquent story-tellers, good speakers, energetic men skilled in arts and crafts, respecters of old people, resolute, devoted, liberal, friendly men fond of *ghata*, *samaja*, *prekshanaka* and *goshthi*, are the type of men a courtesan should pursue. Such men had to be healthy, powerful, compassionate, true lovers of women but not subservient to them, possessed of independent means of livelihood, free of envy and fear.