000			01414nam a22001697a 4500
999			_c344283 _d344283
003			0
005			20210617164434.0
020			_a9789388630757
082			_a305 _bJAI
100			_aJain, Veenus
245			_aDevadasis of India : tradition or travesty
260			_aNew Delhi _bBloomsbury _c2019
300			_a145
520			_aAncient India has been a land of wisdom, riches and mysteries. Its fabled saints, philosophers, ascetics, its multiplicity of Gods & religions, complex rituals and even snake charmers and magicians never ceased to fascinate the world. Socio-religious tradition of Devadasis or the 'Brides of God' as they were known in India, is one such tradition, shrouded in mystery that attracts attention. It compels a curious mind to take a closer look to learn more and understand its realities. These women are generally referred to by the term devadasi which literally means 'female servant of the deity'. This work bears on many topics such as origin, belief, development, ceremonies, organization, functions, activities, paramours, sexuality, historical survey, statistical analysis, preventive measures and the pathetic stories of devadasis. Because it was conceived as a study of women, culture and religion, it must be borne in mind that all these concerns are dealt with as they arise out of a close attention to the practices of the devadasis.
650			_aWomen culture
942			_cB