Tawaif

Mah Laqa Bai singing

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Mir Miran 001

Nautch girls, Kashmir by Samuel Bourne

Mah Laqa Bai dancing

Gauhar Jaan

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Mushaira by courtesans in Hyderabad, India

Tawaif were highly sophisticated courtesans who catered to the nobility of the Indian subcontinent, particularly during the Mughal Empire. These women were well-versed in the arts, including classical music, dance (Kathak), poetry, and were considered the authority on etiquette. Tawaifs played a significant role in the culture and politics of the time, influencing the fashion and cultural trends among the elite. They were an integral part of the courtly culture of the Mughal era, serving not just as entertainers but also as fashion icons and advisors in matters of love and aesthetics.

History

The tradition of the tawaif can be traced back to the 16th century, with their prominence peaking during the 18th and 19th centuries. Initially, tawaifs were respected members of society who contributed to the cultural development of the Indian subcontinent. They were patrons of the arts and were instrumental in the development of the Ghazal and Thumri genres of music. The tawaifs were considered the custodians of Urdu literature and played a pivotal role in its propagation and preservation.

Role and Social Status

Tawaifs were educated and cultured, often more so than the women from respectable families of that era. They were expected to master the art of conversation, music, dance, and poetry, making them the ideal companions for the nobility. Their education allowed them to maintain a high social status and they often wielded considerable influence in political circles. Tawaifs were not merely entertainers; they were the bearers of culture, sophistication, and etiquette in the Mughal court.

Decline

The decline of the tawaif system began with the advent of the British Raj in the 19th century. The British saw the tawaifs as a threat to their moral values and began to marginalize them, associating their profession with immorality and vice. This, coupled with the introduction of anti-nautch legislation, led to the stigmatization of the tawaif community and a decline in their social standing. By the early 20th century, the institution of the tawaif had been significantly diminished, with many of its practices absorbed into the mainstream entertainment industry or disappearing altogether.

Legacy

Despite their decline, the legacy of the tawaifs continues to influence the arts and culture of the Indian subcontinent. The classical dance form of Kathak, which was heavily patronized by the tawaifs, remains a popular art form to this day. Additionally, the Bollywood film industry has occasionally depicted the life and times of tawaifs, albeit in a romanticized manner. The tawaif culture has also been the subject of various literary works, reflecting on their contribution to the arts and society.

See Also

• Mughal Empire
• Kathak
• Urdu literature
• Ghazal
• Thumri

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