The World of Courtesans c8.94

c8.94

The evening was a very important part of the day for the *nagaraka* as it was after nightfall that he could give full vent to his artistic proclivities and amatory ventures. In the afternoon all the routine business ceased and the *nagaraka* joined the deliberations of the *goshthi* or the assembly of the *nagarakas* who were well-versed in the arts. In the musical soiree that followed, a programme of vocal and instrumental music and dancing (*sangitaka*) was arranged, and after this was over, the outer apartment was thoroughly swept and the floor strewn with flowers. Incense smoke filled the room and the bed was made in order to receive visitors The *nagaraka* waited with his companions to meet the *abhisarika* at the appointed time and despatched a female go-between to bring her to him. In case this approach did not succeed, he proceeded to his lady love in person. In order to prove his concern for her the *nagaraka* arranged for the girl whose clothes had been splashed in the rain to change them and to set her coiffure right again; at times his friend deputized for him. The servants fanned them and performed other duties.