Who started Devadasi system in India?

The tradition of Devadasi culture can be traced back to as early as the 7th century, particularly in southern parts of India during the reigns of the Cholas, Chelas, and Pandyas. They were well treated and respected, and held a high social status in the society.

How did the British view the devadasis?

The British saw the devadasis’ dances to be very licentious and legally banned them. The British saw the dances to be inappropriate but couldn’t understand or see the ancient religious aspect to it, for years the Indian people had seen it as dances for the gods and the enjoyment of the Brahmin priests.

Do devadasis marry?

These Devadasis are married to a temple before they even hit puberty, that is at the age of ten or twelve, and they remain loyal to the goddess that they worship for the rest of their lives. They do not get married again or commit themselves to one man or one relationship.

When did devdasi started?

The tradition of the Devadasi culture can be traced back to the 6th century AD, the period when a lot of kingdoms flourished in India. During the times of the Chola Empire, these Devadasis were treated with immense respect and had a very high social status.

Is the Devadasi system still alive in India?

If she wants to escape, the society will not accept her. The Devadasi system is still flourishing in parts of India, especially in the South and specifically in the states of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Ironically, these are the techno-savvy states now synonymous with Indian progress in the global market.

What is the Madras Devadasi system?

In 1947, the Madras Devadasi (Prevention of Dedication) Act outlawed this practice of dedicating the girls to the temples in the southern Madras Presidency. In 1988, the devadasi system was completely outlawed all over India. Yet, it still exists. The practice is followed in the families of the poor, untouchables, dalits and the lower castes.

What is the role of a devadasi?

The Devadasi is dedicated to the service of the temple Deity for life and there is no escape for her. If she wants to escape, the society will not accept her. The Devadasi system is still flourishing in parts of India, especially in the South and specifically in the states of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Are Devadasis a cursed community in India?

In spite of being made illegal by the Government of India way back in 1988, the devadasi system exists even today in some southern States of India and prostitution continues in the name of religion. Under the system, disadvantaged girls are forced into flesh trade and these devadasis are indeed a cursed community.