From Devadasis or Slaves to Prostitutes: A Declining Journey of Courtesan Women in India

The history of devadasis has been largely marginalized in Indian academic discourse, where they are predominantly depicted as temple performers whose descent into prostitution was triggered by colonial rule. This article aims to critically reframe the discourse by drawing comparisons between devadasis and black enslaved women, both of whom were forced into labour and sexual servitude without personal agency or financial compensation. Both groups were subjected to rigid surveillance, making escape or resistance nearly impossible. This article critiques the dominant academic perspectives that fail to recognize devadasis as enslaved women, thereby exposing a crucial gap in historical narratives. By investigating classical texts, archival documents, oral histories and temple records, this study will trace the trajectory of devadasis, from their revered status in temples to their eventual transformation into tawaifs , prostitutes, cabaret dancers and later orchestra performers. The article will expose how the devadasi system has been widely misunderstood in Indian academia. The conclusion will evaluate how their traditional roles were replaced or reinterpreted in modern India, shedding light on contemporary caste and gender dynamics.