The World of Courtesans c9.50

c9.50

Two versions of a musical competition shed interesting light on the manner in which competitions were held. The *Vasudeva Hindi* relates that Vasudeva while entering Champa saw a crowd of young men carrying *vinas*. Wagon loads of *vinas* were surrounded by prospective buyers. When Vasudeva made enquiries and tried to find out why these people acted in this strange fashion, he was told that Gandharvadatta, the daughter of the merchant Charudatta, was a great exponent of the *vina* and her father had announced that he would bestow her on the man who could defeat her in a music competition. Vasudeva's curiosity was roused and he asked for the addresses of some music teachers. He was directed to two music teachers, Sugriva and Jayagriva. He approached Sugriva and feigning ignorance of music, requested him to give him lessons in music. At first the teacher refused to teach him but the gift of a jewelled bracelet to his wife softened his attitude. Homage was paid to Narada and Tumburu and then the teacher asked Vasudeva to play on the *vina* with a sandalwood bow. In the very first lesson he broke the strings which were replaced by stronger ones and the lessons continued. The day of the competition approached and Vasudeva wanted to participate in the competition but the teacher refused him permission. The gift of yet another bracelet did the trick and he was allowed to attend the competition.