Significance of Veshya
The term Veshya has multiple interpretations across various texts. In the Purana, it describes women with multiple partners and includes severe punishments for unchastity. Vyakarana identifies Veshya as a courtesan engaging in sexual commerce. Dharmashastra focuses on prostitutes expected to provide sexual services for compensation, while historical accounts highlight Veshya as courtesans in ancient India, often linked with artistic expression. Finally, Kamashastra mentions Veshya in the context of courtesans, adding to the complexity of its meaning.
Synonyms: Prostitute, Sex worker, Harlot, Courtesan, Call girl
In Finnish: Veshya; In Spanish: Veshya; In Dutch: Vesja; In German: Weschja
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Veshya'
In Hinduism, "Veshya" refers to courtesans or prostitutes engaging in sexual commerce, often with legal stipulations. The term indicates unchastity and implies moral punishment, as seen in texts like the Kamasutra.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Women involved with five or six partners, indicating a high degree of unchastity.[1] (2) A woman who is addicted to five or six persons, punished for eight hundred years in Matsyoda Kunda.[2]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A term likely referring to courtesans, a subject notably omitted in many later works but mentioned in the context of the Kamasutra.[3]
The concept of Veshya in local and regional sources
Veshya refers to courtesans in ancient India, recognized for their artistic contributions and vivid depictions in art. This term highlights the historical significance of these women in cultural and artistic contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A term referring to courtesans in ancient India, often associated with artistic practices and vivid representations in art.[4]