Women's Education in Vātsyāyana's Kāmasūtra: A Study with Special Reference to Catuḥṣaṣṭi Kalāḥ

Ancient Indian education was founded on the principle of holistic human development, integrating intellectual, cultural, ethical, artistic, and practical dimensions of life. Within this educational framework, Vātsyāyana's Kāmasūtra should be understood not merely as a treatise on erotic science but as a significant source for understanding the educational, cultural, and social ideals of classical Indian society. This paper examines the concept of women's education in the Kāmasūtra with particular reference to the Catuḥṣaṣṭi Kalāḥ. Employing historical, analytical, and interpretative methods, the study explores the educational objectives, classification, pedagogical significance, and contemporary relevance of these arts. The analysis demonstrates that Catuḥṣaṣṭi Kalāḥ constituted a comprehensive curriculum encompassing fine arts, literary and linguistic skills, household management, craftsmanship, communication, social etiquette, and cultural practices. Rather than limiting women to domestic responsibilities, Vātsyāyana envisioned their education as a means of cultivating creativity, aesthetic refinement, practical competence, cultural awareness, social leadership, and intellectual maturity. The paper further argues that these arts represent an interdisciplinary and skill-oriented educational model that promoted personality development, self-reliance, and meaningful participation in society. Although rooted in the socio-cultural context of ancient India, the underlying educational principles of experiential learning, multidisciplinary knowledge, life skills, and value-based education remain highly relevant today. In the context of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the educational philosophy embodied in Catuḥṣaṣṭi Kalāḥ offers valuable insights for skill-based learning, art-integrated education, and women's empowerment. A critical reappraisal of the Kāmasūtra thus enriches contemporary discourse on Indian educational philosophy, gender studies, and the Indian Knowledge System.