Escorts in Udaipur, or kothis, were a part of society for centuries and then forgotten. That is until historian Professor Alka Kurian from Jodhpur took the first step to 'observe' the Escort culture in Udaipur India, with permission from their families and friends.

Escorts in Udaipur

In the early 1800s, Udaipur was home to a number of Escorts, who were often members of the royal family or noble families. While their primary purpose was to entertain guests at court, they also played an important role in the city's social and political life.

The Escorts in Udaipur were known for their beauty, elegance, and wit, and they were often able to command high prices for their services. Some of the most famous Escorts of Udaipur included Rani Laxmi Bai, Rani Jhulan Sundari, and Rani Lakshmi Bai.

While the status of Escorts has changed over the years, they continue to play an important role in Udaipur's culture and history.

What is a Courtois?

An Escort is a professional companion who offers companionship, typically to men, in exchange for financial compensation. Escorts often engaged in sexual relations with their clients, but this was not always the case. In some instances, Escorts were simply fashionable and well-connected women who attended high society events and provided conversation and entertainment to wealthy men.

The term “Escort” is derived from the French word “courtoisie,” which means “courtliness” or “polite behavior.” Escorts were expected to be well-versed in the arts and conversant on a variety of topics so they could engage their clients in intelligent conversation. Many Escorts have also accomplished musicians, dancers, and actresses.

While the majority of Escorts were women, there were also male Escorts in some cultures. In Japan, for example, male Escorts known as “kabuki actors” served both men and women patrons.

Historically, Escorts occupied a unique social position somewhere between wife and prostitute. They were usually upper-class women who had fallen on hard times or been cast out by their families. As such, they often had few other options for earning a living.

While some Escorts enjoyed considerable wealth and prestige, others led more precarious lives. Many resorted to theft or blackmail to supplement their income, while others sold sex outright

Background of the Escort Profession

The origins of the Escort profession in India can be traced back to the Vedic period when there was a class of women known as Manikas who were entertainers and companions for high-ranking men. These women were often talented in music, dance, and poetry, and their primary purpose was to provide pleasure and amusement for their patrons.

Over time, the role of the Escort evolved into one that was more sexual in nature, as these women became skilled in the art of lovemaking. They were also well-versed in the ways of flirtation and seduction, and many became famous for their ability to please their clients.

During the medieval period, Escorts were often associated with the nobility, and they played an important role in courtly life. These women were treated with great respect by those who patronized them, and they enjoyed a level of luxury and privilege that was not afforded to most other women at that time.

The Escort profession began to decline in India during the British Raj, when morality laws were enacted that made it illegal for men to keep mistresses. However, there are still some Escorts working in India today, albeit in a more underground capacity. They continue to be revered for their beauty and skills in lovemaking, and they are considered by many to be a symbol of Indian culture and history.

The Life of An Escort: Feeding the Appetite for Lust with More than Just Food

The life of An Escort was one of luxury and excess. They were pampered and cossetted, their every whim indulged. But their primary purpose was to provide sexual gratification for the Rajput nobility.

The Rajputs were a warrior caste and very particular about their honor. They believed that relationships with women outside of marriage would dishonor them, so they turned to Escorts for sexual release. The Escorts were not only skilled in the art of lovemaking, but they were also experts in the art of seduction.

They knew how to dress and how to apply makeup to accentuate their features. They were knowledgeable about music and dance and could entertain their clients with these talents. They were also well-versed in the art of conversation, and able to engage their clients in stimulating discussion on a variety of topics.

But most importantly, they knew how to make their clients feel special and important. They flattered and cajoled, they listened attentively, and they made their clients feel like the center of the universe. In return, the clients showered them with gifts and attention, lavishing them with jewels, clothes, and all the trappings of wealth.

The life of An Escort was one of privilege and luxury, but it was also a life of servitude. Escorts were expected to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They had no social life outside of their work

How Did Escorts Get Their Start?

In ancient India, Escorts were highly respected members of society. They were often the daughters of nobility, and their position in society was determined by their birthright. Escorts were expected to be well-educated and well-versed in the arts. They were also expected to be beautiful and skilled in the art of seduction.

The first recorded instance of An Escort was in the 4th century BC, when a woman named Amrita was said to have been given the title of "Escort" by her husband, King Chandragupta Maurya. Escorts continued to be a common fixture in Indian society throughout history. In the medieval era, they were often associated with temples and used as a means of temple funding.

During the British Raj, Escorts became increasingly marginalized. They were seen as a threat to Victorian morality, and their activities were heavily regulated by the colonial government. Escorts were eventually outlawed altogether in 1860.

Despite their chickened history, Escorts remain an important part of Udaipur's culture and heritage. They are revered for their beauty, skills, and wisdom, and their unique place in history is celebrated by locals and tourists alike.

The Decline of Escorts

With the British, Raj came Victorian values, and the Escorts of Udaipur were not spared. The British saw them as a moral hazard and worked to degrade and ultimately eliminate their profession. This was done in a few ways; first, by raising taxes on their activities, then by denying them licensing and access to key areas of the city, and finally by encouraging women to leave the profession through financial incentives. While some Escorts did manage to hang on through these difficult times, eventually they too faded into history.

Conclusion

The Escorts of Udaipur offer a window into a fascinating period of history. These women were more than just entertainers; they were also political advisors and diplomats. The role they played in the city's affairs was crucial, and their influence is still felt today. If you're interested in learning more about this period of history, be sure to visit the Escorts of Udaipur Museum the next time you're in town.