Women of Pride:The Devadasi Heritage
Lakshmi Vishwanathan
The book brings into focus the activities and identities of the devadasis and examines the functions and forms of the devadasi tradition.
Hardback | 5.5” x 8.5” | 236 pp
ISBN 9788174366726
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Devadasi, raja dasi or kutcheri dasi - devadasis have acquired a variety of definitions and roles over the years. ?Women of Pride studies, in depth, the devadasi tradition and its transformation into a living cultural phenomenon in the context of Hindu tradition. The book brings into focus the activities and identities of the devadasis and examines the functions and forms of the devadasi tradition. The changing face of the tradition has been authenticated and given a voice by the author by featuring some of the most prominent devadasis of our times. The book also examines the devadasi reform movement in a political, religious, and social context.
About the author
Lakshmi Vishwanathan is a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer and choreographer who has received many honours including the Tamil Nadu State Kalaimamani and the Sangeet Natak Akademi award. As a cultural ambassador of India, she has performed extensively abroad in important festivals and earned the admiration of world-class dancers and choreographers. Prestigious research fellowships have enabled her to research the history and ethos of dance. Her scholarly lectures and demonstrations have been showcased in both Indian and international academic forums. A gold medallist from Madras University in English Literature, Vishwanathan has written extensively on dance and culture for various publications. She has also authored Bharatanatyam: The Tamil Heritage, Kapaliswara Temple, and Kunjamma: Ode to a Nightingale (Roli Books 2003). She has directed Poetry of Dance, a documentary film.
Press quotes
Mumbai Mirror, April 23 2009
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