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COURTING HINDUSTAN : THE CONSUMING PASSIONS OF ICONIC WOMEN PERFORMERS OF INDIA
In ancient India, women competed to win the title of Nagarvadhu, quite literally the town’s consort.
For certain temple worship (Agamas), dance and music were necessary ingredients. The women artists dedicated to the worship—Devadasis and Maharis—had a high rank and dignity in society.
Tawaifs were central to Mughal court culture from the sixteenth century. It is also believed that young heirs were sent to courtesans to learn ‘tameez’ and ‘tehzeeb’, including the appreciation of good music and literature.
Courting Hindustan is a deeply researched, elegantly crafted portrait of some of the most intriguing women figures practising traditional Indian entertainment art forms such as, music, dance and poetry. It relives 2,500 golden years of women being elite traditional performers and how, over the centuries, they have captured the imagination of the country and the world at large, their art and lives being a complex response to social forces and cultural conditions.
Courting Hindustan delves into the scintillating world of courtesans who went on to become empresses, queens, prima donnas, pioneer filmmakers, music directors, ace dancers and so much more. Many of them went on to rule kingdoms, enjoyed positions of great power; many were venerated by governments and yet they lived on the fringes of society. In many ways, these were women, first of their kind, to survive an entrenched patriarchal society and break the chains imposed on them, paving the way for generations of women to come and conquer.
For certain temple worship (Agamas), dance and music were necessary ingredients. The women artists dedicated to the worship—Devadasis and Maharis—had a high rank and dignity in society.
Tawaifs were central to Mughal court culture from the sixteenth century. It is also believed that young heirs were sent to courtesans to learn ‘tameez’ and ‘tehzeeb’, including the appreciation of good music and literature.
Courting Hindustan is a deeply researched, elegantly crafted portrait of some of the most intriguing women figures practising traditional Indian entertainment art forms such as, music, dance and poetry. It relives 2,500 golden years of women being elite traditional performers and how, over the centuries, they have captured the imagination of the country and the world at large, their art and lives being a complex response to social forces and cultural conditions.
Courting Hindustan delves into the scintillating world of courtesans who went on to become empresses, queens, prima donnas, pioneer filmmakers, music directors, ace dancers and so much more. Many of them went on to rule kingdoms, enjoyed positions of great power; many were venerated by governments and yet they lived on the fringes of society. In many ways, these were women, first of their kind, to survive an entrenched patriarchal society and break the chains imposed on them, paving the way for generations of women to come and conquer.
- GenresNonfiction
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2023
7 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 8, 2023
Courting Hindustan by Madhur Gupta compiles into one book the history or should I say at most times ' forgotten' history of India's best performing women, who have lived the life of the worshipped Devdasi and have been brought down to the level of what is commonly called 'tawaifs' and 'courtesans' living in kothas.
.
The author through the lives of
Amrapali, Vasantasena, Roopmati, Begum Samru, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai, Jaddan Bai, Begum Akhtar Balasaraswati brings to front that the hubs of these women often associated with polygamouse relationships and untamed adult entertaimment were actually centres where art and culture thrived. These women ranging from danseuses, musicians, singers also bore great wit and valor to have ruled kingdoms, made movies and take steps to be the first in things such as singing on the gramophone records!
.
These tales often have different versions that have been accumulated in a well researched semblance of this book and although I had heard of a couple of them in passing, this book I think is unique in collecting them all together.
.
Some of my favourites were Gauhar Jaan, Hazrat Mahal and Amrapalli. The Calcutta connection for a couple of them obviously strung on my heartstrings hard!
.
Time and again I believe women have been brought down, rather the unrelenting patriarchy has tried it - only to have shine bright in history some women or the other, who in some form or the other has counteracted the negative forces and come out flying.
.
The intro by the author well describes the rise and fall of the courtesan culture spanning history is really an eye opener and the forward by Pandit Birju Maharaj is just the cherry on the cake!
.
.
The author through the lives of
Amrapali, Vasantasena, Roopmati, Begum Samru, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai, Jaddan Bai, Begum Akhtar Balasaraswati brings to front that the hubs of these women often associated with polygamouse relationships and untamed adult entertaimment were actually centres where art and culture thrived. These women ranging from danseuses, musicians, singers also bore great wit and valor to have ruled kingdoms, made movies and take steps to be the first in things such as singing on the gramophone records!
.
These tales often have different versions that have been accumulated in a well researched semblance of this book and although I had heard of a couple of them in passing, this book I think is unique in collecting them all together.
.
Some of my favourites were Gauhar Jaan, Hazrat Mahal and Amrapalli. The Calcutta connection for a couple of them obviously strung on my heartstrings hard!
.
Time and again I believe women have been brought down, rather the unrelenting patriarchy has tried it - only to have shine bright in history some women or the other, who in some form or the other has counteracted the negative forces and come out flying.
.
The intro by the author well describes the rise and fall of the courtesan culture spanning history is really an eye opener and the forward by Pandit Birju Maharaj is just the cherry on the cake!
.
May 27, 2023
Courting Hindustan is a deeply researched, elegantly crafted portrait of some of the most intriguing women figures practising traditional Indian entertainment art forms such as, music, dance and poetry. It relives 2,500 golden years of women being elite traditional performers and how, over the centuries, they have captured the imagination of the country and the world at large, their art and lives being a complex response to social forces and cultural conditions.
Some of the highlights of the book were-
1) This book shows the lives of 10 famous Courtesans of India ever. Starts with Amrapali, Vasantasena, Roopmati, Begum Samru, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai, Jaddan Bai, Begum Akhtar & Balasaraswati.
2) The lines which touched my heart was from the story of "Roopmati", pg 47 -
"When love is lost, do not bow your head in sadness; instead keep your head up high and gaze into heaven for that is where your broken heart has been sent to heal".
3) The Book has a glossary section where you can know the meaning of the words &. Inchance your knowledge.
4) The Book has a footer section too where you will get to know about the articles and books where the original fact has been taken from. This is a highly researched book.
5) I personally liked 3 stories- Roopmati, Gauhar Jaan and Begum Akhtar.
This is a must read book 😄
Some of the highlights of the book were-
1) This book shows the lives of 10 famous Courtesans of India ever. Starts with Amrapali, Vasantasena, Roopmati, Begum Samru, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai, Jaddan Bai, Begum Akhtar & Balasaraswati.
2) The lines which touched my heart was from the story of "Roopmati", pg 47 -
"When love is lost, do not bow your head in sadness; instead keep your head up high and gaze into heaven for that is where your broken heart has been sent to heal".
3) The Book has a glossary section where you can know the meaning of the words &. Inchance your knowledge.
4) The Book has a footer section too where you will get to know about the articles and books where the original fact has been taken from. This is a highly researched book.
5) I personally liked 3 stories- Roopmati, Gauhar Jaan and Begum Akhtar.
This is a must read book 😄
February 5, 2024
4 for the coverage of artists . 3 to 3.5 for the narrative ... Overall rating 3.5.
December 31, 2023
Do you remember Madhubala as Anarkali?
Do you remember Meena Kumari as Paakezah?
Do you remember Rekha as Umraojaan?
Do you remember Kiron Kher as Sardari Begum?
Do you remember Karishma Kapoor as Zubeida?
What is the common thing all these four damsels have?
They are all courtesans. As the ages and dynasties passed, withered, the concept of courtesan underwent a significant metamorphosis.
Courtesans in India have been known by various names for hundreds of years, depending on what they have done and where they are social - from tawaifs, who performed in Mughal India's courts and salons, to baijis and gaanewalis, the first recording superstars, to lavani dancers, who perform at theatres across Maharashtra. The courtesans of India did not appear out of nowhere; their history dates back thousands of years. Courtesans were present in the Mahabharata and Ramayana, according to the facts. This group of ladies, known as courtesans, had a specific job: to pleasure the court males. Despite the belief that courtesans were a despised segment of society, these women were often so wealthy and politically involved that they made enormous contributions to Indian history.
"Courting Hindustan", authored by Madhur Gupta, is a well-researched, exquisitely created depiction of some of the most attractive female individuals involved in traditional Indian entertainment arts such as music, dance, and poetry. It re-creates 2,500 years of elite traditional female performers and how, over the ages, they have caught the imagination of the country and the globe, causing their work and lives to be a complicated response to social pressures and cultural contexts.
The book featured the 10 most important, unforgettable and enchanting women. The story of Amrapali is the first one in the list of contents in the book. According to historical accounts and Buddhist texts, Amrapali was born into a humble family in Vaishali. She possessed exceptional beauty and talent as a dancer, which earned her great fame and popularity. As a courtesan, she entertained and performed for ordinary people and influential figures, including kings and nobles. Her life took a significant turn when Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, visited Vaishali during his travels. Impressed by her grace and charm, Buddha is said to have accepted an invitation to Amrapali's residence for a meal. This encounter profoundly impacted Amrapali, and she became a devoted follower of Buddhism. Many tales and movies have been developed, taking this as a significant storyline. Vipranarayana of Telugu veteran superstar Akkineni Nageshwara Rao and ace actress Bhanumathi's story is almost equivalent to Gautama Buddha and Amrapali. Such is the effect these women from history have bestowed on the people.
Madhur Vijay, the author, has skillfully revived the tales of forgotten figures, reminding us of their significance. It is our responsibility, particularly those who possess knowledge about Indian courtesans and their contributions, to acquaint the younger generation with these inspiring individuals. Indian history would be incomplete without acknowledging the role of these women. Regrettably, recent films often portray courtesans solely as pleasure providers, disregarding their esteemed positions within the Mughal administration in bygone eras.
The prologue by respected Shri Birju Maharaj Ji and reviews by people of certain stature like Mallika Sarabhai, Ustad Zakir Hussain, Anoushka Shankar, Shashi Tharoor and such dignitaries make the book a must-read!
Do you remember Meena Kumari as Paakezah?
Do you remember Rekha as Umraojaan?
Do you remember Kiron Kher as Sardari Begum?
Do you remember Karishma Kapoor as Zubeida?
What is the common thing all these four damsels have?
They are all courtesans. As the ages and dynasties passed, withered, the concept of courtesan underwent a significant metamorphosis.
Courtesans in India have been known by various names for hundreds of years, depending on what they have done and where they are social - from tawaifs, who performed in Mughal India's courts and salons, to baijis and gaanewalis, the first recording superstars, to lavani dancers, who perform at theatres across Maharashtra. The courtesans of India did not appear out of nowhere; their history dates back thousands of years. Courtesans were present in the Mahabharata and Ramayana, according to the facts. This group of ladies, known as courtesans, had a specific job: to pleasure the court males. Despite the belief that courtesans were a despised segment of society, these women were often so wealthy and politically involved that they made enormous contributions to Indian history.
"Courting Hindustan", authored by Madhur Gupta, is a well-researched, exquisitely created depiction of some of the most attractive female individuals involved in traditional Indian entertainment arts such as music, dance, and poetry. It re-creates 2,500 years of elite traditional female performers and how, over the ages, they have caught the imagination of the country and the globe, causing their work and lives to be a complicated response to social pressures and cultural contexts.
The book featured the 10 most important, unforgettable and enchanting women. The story of Amrapali is the first one in the list of contents in the book. According to historical accounts and Buddhist texts, Amrapali was born into a humble family in Vaishali. She possessed exceptional beauty and talent as a dancer, which earned her great fame and popularity. As a courtesan, she entertained and performed for ordinary people and influential figures, including kings and nobles. Her life took a significant turn when Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, visited Vaishali during his travels. Impressed by her grace and charm, Buddha is said to have accepted an invitation to Amrapali's residence for a meal. This encounter profoundly impacted Amrapali, and she became a devoted follower of Buddhism. Many tales and movies have been developed, taking this as a significant storyline. Vipranarayana of Telugu veteran superstar Akkineni Nageshwara Rao and ace actress Bhanumathi's story is almost equivalent to Gautama Buddha and Amrapali. Such is the effect these women from history have bestowed on the people.
Madhur Vijay, the author, has skillfully revived the tales of forgotten figures, reminding us of their significance. It is our responsibility, particularly those who possess knowledge about Indian courtesans and their contributions, to acquaint the younger generation with these inspiring individuals. Indian history would be incomplete without acknowledging the role of these women. Regrettably, recent films often portray courtesans solely as pleasure providers, disregarding their esteemed positions within the Mughal administration in bygone eras.
The prologue by respected Shri Birju Maharaj Ji and reviews by people of certain stature like Mallika Sarabhai, Ustad Zakir Hussain, Anoushka Shankar, Shashi Tharoor and such dignitaries make the book a must-read!
June 20, 2023
Book 54 of 2023
This book tells the stories of brave, trailblazing women who started as courtesans before going on to play significant positions in society. Many are mythical figures who continue to inspire awe today. In his book "Courting Hindustan," Madhur Gupta provides a quick glimpse into the lives of some of them.
The book introduces us to the ganikas, tawaifs, bais, and jans of ancient, mediaeval, and colonial India by weaving facts and tales together. The 64 fine arts were taught by the Acharyas to the trained dancers and singers known as ganikas. We learn about Amrapali, a woman from the sixth century BC whose beauty drew rulers but whose heart yearned for Buddha. She is mentioned in Buddhist writings because it is said that she hosted Lord Buddha for lunch.
A well-researched and beautifully crafted depiction of some of the most fascinating female performers of traditional Indian entertainment arts, including music, dance, and poetry, is found in Courting Hindustan. It relives 2,500 years of top female traditional performers who caught the nation's and the world's attention over the ages. Their art and lives were intricate reactions to societal pressures and cultural norms.
This stunning work of art sheds light on the life of the women who predominated in the traditional Indian entertainment scene at the time. The book is so wonderfully written that you become completely absorbed in it as soon as you begin reading.
This book is for people of all ages who value and are passionate about the history and influence of Indian art on the nation and the rest of the globe.
A fantastic book that I urge everyone to read. This stunning work of art sheds light on the life of the women who predominated in the traditional Indian entertainment scene at the time. The book is so wonderfully written that you become completely absorbed in it as soon as you begin reading.
This book is for people of all ages who value and are passionate about the history and influence of Indian art on the nation and the rest of the globe.
A fantastic book that I urge everyone to read. Don't stop, Madhur Gupta.
This book tells the stories of brave, trailblazing women who started as courtesans before going on to play significant positions in society. Many are mythical figures who continue to inspire awe today. In his book "Courting Hindustan," Madhur Gupta provides a quick glimpse into the lives of some of them.
The book introduces us to the ganikas, tawaifs, bais, and jans of ancient, mediaeval, and colonial India by weaving facts and tales together. The 64 fine arts were taught by the Acharyas to the trained dancers and singers known as ganikas. We learn about Amrapali, a woman from the sixth century BC whose beauty drew rulers but whose heart yearned for Buddha. She is mentioned in Buddhist writings because it is said that she hosted Lord Buddha for lunch.
A well-researched and beautifully crafted depiction of some of the most fascinating female performers of traditional Indian entertainment arts, including music, dance, and poetry, is found in Courting Hindustan. It relives 2,500 years of top female traditional performers who caught the nation's and the world's attention over the ages. Their art and lives were intricate reactions to societal pressures and cultural norms.
This stunning work of art sheds light on the life of the women who predominated in the traditional Indian entertainment scene at the time. The book is so wonderfully written that you become completely absorbed in it as soon as you begin reading.
This book is for people of all ages who value and are passionate about the history and influence of Indian art on the nation and the rest of the globe.
A fantastic book that I urge everyone to read. This stunning work of art sheds light on the life of the women who predominated in the traditional Indian entertainment scene at the time. The book is so wonderfully written that you become completely absorbed in it as soon as you begin reading.
This book is for people of all ages who value and are passionate about the history and influence of Indian art on the nation and the rest of the globe.
A fantastic book that I urge everyone to read. Don't stop, Madhur Gupta.
May 23, 2023
𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊
•• TITLE : Courting Hindustan
•• AUTHOR : Madhur Gupta
•• PUBLISHER : Rupa Publication
•• FORMAT : Paperback
•• LANGUAGE : English
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒
Courting Hindustan is a deeply researched, elegantly crafted portrait of some of the most intriguing women figures practising traditional Indian entertainment art forms such as music, dance and poetry. It relives the 2,500 golden years of women being elite traditional performers and how, over the centuries, they have captured the imagination of the country and the world at large, their art and lives being a complex response to social forces and cultural conditions.
..
This book is a collection of stories of 10 women who are,
• Amrapali: The Courtesan, the King and the Monk
• Vasantasena: The Golden Courtesan
• Roopmati: The Melodic Mistress
• Begum Samru: The Dancing Girl of Sardhana
• Begum Hazrat Mahal: The Rebel Courtesan
• Gauhar Jaan: The Gramophone Girl
• Janki Bai: The Courtesan on a Knife's Edge
• Jaddan Bai: The Mother of Mother India
• Begum Akhtar: The Lament of a Songstress
• Balasaraswati: The Last Standing Courtesan
..
To know more about these women's glorifying life grab it & try it.
✓ The cover of the book is simple yet quite ancient themed.
✓ The author nicely collected all the details about these women & penned them down in a precise manner.
✓ The language used in this book is quite fascinating. It's good, easily understandable & quite relatable with the storyline.
✓ All the supporting characters in this book are developed in great depth & give insights into each of them.
✓ The detailed narration along with crisp points & lucid narration makes this book more classy to read.
✓ Writing down such a kind of book requires a deep analysis which is easily marked in the author's creation.
✓ The author did tremendous research before writing this book, which is clearly replicated in his elaborative narration.
✓ It is quite a fast-paced book which is informative & inspiring too which makes it a unique kind of book that keeps you hooked up till the last page.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
•• TITLE : Courting Hindustan
•• AUTHOR : Madhur Gupta
•• PUBLISHER : Rupa Publication
•• FORMAT : Paperback
•• LANGUAGE : English
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒
Courting Hindustan is a deeply researched, elegantly crafted portrait of some of the most intriguing women figures practising traditional Indian entertainment art forms such as music, dance and poetry. It relives the 2,500 golden years of women being elite traditional performers and how, over the centuries, they have captured the imagination of the country and the world at large, their art and lives being a complex response to social forces and cultural conditions.
..
This book is a collection of stories of 10 women who are,
• Amrapali: The Courtesan, the King and the Monk
• Vasantasena: The Golden Courtesan
• Roopmati: The Melodic Mistress
• Begum Samru: The Dancing Girl of Sardhana
• Begum Hazrat Mahal: The Rebel Courtesan
• Gauhar Jaan: The Gramophone Girl
• Janki Bai: The Courtesan on a Knife's Edge
• Jaddan Bai: The Mother of Mother India
• Begum Akhtar: The Lament of a Songstress
• Balasaraswati: The Last Standing Courtesan
..
To know more about these women's glorifying life grab it & try it.
✓ The cover of the book is simple yet quite ancient themed.
✓ The author nicely collected all the details about these women & penned them down in a precise manner.
✓ The language used in this book is quite fascinating. It's good, easily understandable & quite relatable with the storyline.
✓ All the supporting characters in this book are developed in great depth & give insights into each of them.
✓ The detailed narration along with crisp points & lucid narration makes this book more classy to read.
✓ Writing down such a kind of book requires a deep analysis which is easily marked in the author's creation.
✓ The author did tremendous research before writing this book, which is clearly replicated in his elaborative narration.
✓ It is quite a fast-paced book which is informative & inspiring too which makes it a unique kind of book that keeps you hooked up till the last page.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
June 29, 2023
Courting Hindustan can be defined as a enchanting garden filled with rare specimens who have their unique features which made them shine in the crowd.This is a beautiful collection of stories of prominent personalities from the pages of history who rose to fame due to their art and then gained a powerful position which helped them chart their own fate.
🍀
Begum Hazrat Mahal, Begum Samru and Roopmati are few of the powerful women who left a deep imprint on the history of Indian Classical music and dance.They changed the outlook of the society towards women through their deeds and work.
🍀
Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai and Begum Akhtar were stalwarts of their times, they rose to their fame through sheer hardwork, bravery and performance.They dared to take the risk of recording for Gramophone when their male counterparts debated over.The mother of mother Indian Jaddan Bai was a multi-talented brave individual who left a deep impression on music and film industry.
🍀
The contribution of the famous Balasaraswati towards the music industry in the 90s is undeniable.Her talent was recognised all over India.One can't ever forget the beautiful play of The little clay cart involving the intelligent and outspoken Vasantsena
🍀
A well researched and well written anthology in layman's language, it will tug at the reader's heart.Their stories moved me deeply.At a time, when women were restricted to inner courtyard, they broke norms, gained power, fame rested the Chaos and brought order by using their wit and sheer bravery.
🍀
The author also subtly pointed out the attitude of the nationalists towards the performers from whom they could accept donation for the freedom movement.But they were against the idea of their direct participation into it.Their patriotism could not hide their prejudice.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
🍀
Begum Hazrat Mahal, Begum Samru and Roopmati are few of the powerful women who left a deep imprint on the history of Indian Classical music and dance.They changed the outlook of the society towards women through their deeds and work.
🍀
Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai and Begum Akhtar were stalwarts of their times, they rose to their fame through sheer hardwork, bravery and performance.They dared to take the risk of recording for Gramophone when their male counterparts debated over.The mother of mother Indian Jaddan Bai was a multi-talented brave individual who left a deep impression on music and film industry.
🍀
The contribution of the famous Balasaraswati towards the music industry in the 90s is undeniable.Her talent was recognised all over India.One can't ever forget the beautiful play of The little clay cart involving the intelligent and outspoken Vasantsena
🍀
A well researched and well written anthology in layman's language, it will tug at the reader's heart.Their stories moved me deeply.At a time, when women were restricted to inner courtyard, they broke norms, gained power, fame rested the Chaos and brought order by using their wit and sheer bravery.
🍀
The author also subtly pointed out the attitude of the nationalists towards the performers from whom they could accept donation for the freedom movement.But they were against the idea of their direct participation into it.Their patriotism could not hide their prejudice.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
July 7, 2023
Courting Hindustan is a remarkable exploration of the captivating world of traditional Indian entertainment and the incredible women who dedicated their lives to the arts. In this deeply researched and elegantly crafted portrait, the author takes us on a journey spanning 2,500 golden years, uncovering the fascinating stories of women who were not only elite performers but also pioneers, rulers, and forces of change in a patriarchal society.
The book sheds light on the remarkable tradition of Nagarvadhus in ancient India, where women competed to earn the prestigious title of the town's consort. This captivating practice exemplified the importance and recognition given to women artists in society. The author also delves into the lives of Devadasis and Maharis, women who held high rank and dignity in society as they dedicated themselves to temple worship, dance, and music. Their contributions to the cultural landscape of India are truly invaluable.
The narrative expands to the Mughal era, where tawaifs played a central role in court culture. These courtesans were not only entertainers but also cultural educators, passing on refined manners, appreciation for music and literature, and shaping the sensibilities of young heirs. Courting Hindustan provides a thought-provoking exploration of the multifaceted roles these women played in shaping the social fabric of their time.
One of the greatest strengths of Courting Hindustan is its meticulous research. The author masterfully weaves together historical accounts, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes to create a comprehensive tapestry of the lives of these remarkable women. From empresses and queens to prima donnas and pioneer filmmakers, the book explores the diverse paths taken by these women, highlighting their resilience and their ability to transcend societal constraints.
The book sheds light on the remarkable tradition of Nagarvadhus in ancient India, where women competed to earn the prestigious title of the town's consort. This captivating practice exemplified the importance and recognition given to women artists in society. The author also delves into the lives of Devadasis and Maharis, women who held high rank and dignity in society as they dedicated themselves to temple worship, dance, and music. Their contributions to the cultural landscape of India are truly invaluable.
The narrative expands to the Mughal era, where tawaifs played a central role in court culture. These courtesans were not only entertainers but also cultural educators, passing on refined manners, appreciation for music and literature, and shaping the sensibilities of young heirs. Courting Hindustan provides a thought-provoking exploration of the multifaceted roles these women played in shaping the social fabric of their time.
One of the greatest strengths of Courting Hindustan is its meticulous research. The author masterfully weaves together historical accounts, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes to create a comprehensive tapestry of the lives of these remarkable women. From empresses and queens to prima donnas and pioneer filmmakers, the book explores the diverse paths taken by these women, highlighting their resilience and their ability to transcend societal constraints.
May 31, 2023
Courtesans in India have been known by various names for hundreds of years, depending on what they have done and where they are social – from tawaifs, who performed in Mughal India’s courts and salons, to baijis and gaanewalis, the first recording superstars, to lavani dancers, who perform at theatres across Maharashtra.
The courtesans of India did not appear out of nowhere; their history dates back thousands of years. Courtesans were present in the Mahabharata and Ramayana, according to the facts. This group of ladies, known as courtesans, had a specific job: to pleasure the court males. Despite the belief that courtesans were a despised segment of society, these women were often so wealthy and politically involved that they made enormous contributions to Indian history.
“Courting Hindustan“, authored by Madhur Gupta, is a well-researched, exquisitely created depiction of some of the most attractive female individuals involved in traditional Indian entertainment arts such as music, dance, and poetry. It re-creates 2,500 years of elite traditional female performers and how, over the ages, they have caught the imagination of the country and the globe, causing their work and lives to be a complicated response to social pressures and cultural contexts.
Read the full review here - https://www.storizen.com/book-reviews...
The courtesans of India did not appear out of nowhere; their history dates back thousands of years. Courtesans were present in the Mahabharata and Ramayana, according to the facts. This group of ladies, known as courtesans, had a specific job: to pleasure the court males. Despite the belief that courtesans were a despised segment of society, these women were often so wealthy and politically involved that they made enormous contributions to Indian history.
“Courting Hindustan“, authored by Madhur Gupta, is a well-researched, exquisitely created depiction of some of the most attractive female individuals involved in traditional Indian entertainment arts such as music, dance, and poetry. It re-creates 2,500 years of elite traditional female performers and how, over the ages, they have caught the imagination of the country and the globe, causing their work and lives to be a complicated response to social pressures and cultural contexts.
Read the full review here - https://www.storizen.com/book-reviews...
August 31, 2023
One of the best books!!!
The book discussed about the courtesans who were an integral part of our society. Their history is intermixed with that of India's and the leaders during that time. Therefore, reading this book not just made me more knowledgeable on courtesan culture but on India's as well.
There are ten stories in the book, each about a courtesan. Each of these stories portrayed the period they lived in and the hardships they faced. Their stories were a saga of love, betrayal, overpowering, and finally death. It was distressing to read about the various problems faced by these women, who should have been celebrated for their talents.
The book gave me insight into a culture that I had no prior knowledge of. After reading this book, I was so engrossed in their stories that I did searched about all of these women. Some of their works have been lost due to years of neglect, but the others that remained spoke volumes about their immense talent.
The author's writing style was so smooth that at times, I even forgot that I was reading history. I loved this book quite a lot and the knowledge that I had about courtesans and India has increased after reading this one.
I highly recommend this book that takes you on a journey to the old times when art was the main focus.
The book discussed about the courtesans who were an integral part of our society. Their history is intermixed with that of India's and the leaders during that time. Therefore, reading this book not just made me more knowledgeable on courtesan culture but on India's as well.
There are ten stories in the book, each about a courtesan. Each of these stories portrayed the period they lived in and the hardships they faced. Their stories were a saga of love, betrayal, overpowering, and finally death. It was distressing to read about the various problems faced by these women, who should have been celebrated for their talents.
The book gave me insight into a culture that I had no prior knowledge of. After reading this book, I was so engrossed in their stories that I did searched about all of these women. Some of their works have been lost due to years of neglect, but the others that remained spoke volumes about their immense talent.
The author's writing style was so smooth that at times, I even forgot that I was reading history. I loved this book quite a lot and the knowledge that I had about courtesans and India has increased after reading this one.
I highly recommend this book that takes you on a journey to the old times when art was the main focus.
May 22, 2023
How do you know if a certain non-fic book is well-researched? Well, you don't until you read a poorly-researched one. 'Courting Hindustan', throughly researched for 5 years by the author, is told like a novel and is one of those few non-fic books that enfold stories in herself-10 in this case.
Painting the courtesans, tawaifs and devdasis, Madhur brings an unknown and unread account of the lives of these women who have been much maligned either due to malice or ignorance.
Recommended by stalwarts like Dr Tharoor, Anoushka Shankar and Pandit Birju Maharaj, this book details the lives of 10 Courtesans India has seen - Starting from Amrapali, Vasantasena, Roopmati, Begum Samru, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai, Jaddan Bai, Begun Akhtar and ending with Balasaraswati.
Researched for 5 years, the book brings interesting tidbits to life like when it describes the meeting of Buddha with Amrapali.
My personal favorite is the story of Baaz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati of Mandu.
Have a gander at these lines:
'When love is lost, do not bow your head in sadness;instead keep your head up high and gaze into heaven for that is where your broken heart has been sent to heal.'
Painting the courtesans, tawaifs and devdasis, Madhur brings an unknown and unread account of the lives of these women who have been much maligned either due to malice or ignorance.
Recommended by stalwarts like Dr Tharoor, Anoushka Shankar and Pandit Birju Maharaj, this book details the lives of 10 Courtesans India has seen - Starting from Amrapali, Vasantasena, Roopmati, Begum Samru, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Gauhar Jaan, Janki Bai, Jaddan Bai, Begun Akhtar and ending with Balasaraswati.
Researched for 5 years, the book brings interesting tidbits to life like when it describes the meeting of Buddha with Amrapali.
My personal favorite is the story of Baaz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati of Mandu.
Have a gander at these lines:
'When love is lost, do not bow your head in sadness;instead keep your head up high and gaze into heaven for that is where your broken heart has been sent to heal.'
June 4, 2023
Reads like a Wikipedia page.
June 13, 2023
Inspiring book on women entertainers of India. Must read for history and art enthusiasts!
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July 23, 2023
This one’s a remarkable read about some of the most intriguing women figures practising traditional Indian entertainment art forms! Glad to have picked this one.
September 14, 2024
A page turner.👍
February 5, 2025
I will never forgive Britishers for coming here and ruining everything.
January 21, 2026
Beautiful book. The stories were simplified a bit at multiple places but it makes sense since this book covers a lot of ground. And it made me so curious that I have several new books on TBR on multiple of these courtesans' lives
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