Who is known as Devadasi?

The term Devadasi referred to the women who danced inside the temple. Devadasi, or mahari, means “those great women who can control natural human impulses, their five senses and can submit themselves completely to God (Vachaspati).” Mahari means Mahan Nari that is, the woman belonging to God.

How can I get Devadasi?

The process of dedicating a Devadasi to the goddess involves a traditional ceremony and is performed before the girl hits puberty. After the ritual she is considered married to the deity and is not allowed to marry a mortal for the rest of her life. The goddess is known by several names including Yellama and Uligamma.

What is the Devadasi system?

Devadasi system is not only exploitation of women, it is the institutionalized exploitation of women; it is the exploitation of Dalits, the lower class of untouchables; it is the religious sanction given to prostitution of helpless economically and socially deprived women; It is the glorification of humiliation of women.

What is the origin of the Devadasi tradition?

The definite origin of Devadasi tradition is unknown. The first known mention of Devadasi is to a girl named Amrapali who was declared nagarvadhu by the king during the time of the Buddha. Many scholars have noted that the tradition has no basis in scriptures.

What happened to the Devadasi community during the British rule?

During British rule in the Indian subcontinent kings who were the patrons of temples, thus the temple artist communities lost their power. As a result, Devadasi were left without their traditional means of support and patronage. During colonial times reformists worked towards outlawing the Devadasi tradition.

What was the role of Devadasi in the Chola Empire?

Both male and female Devadasi were dedicated to the service of a temple and its deity. The Chola empire developed the tradition of music and dance employed during temple festivals.