The Forgotten Legacy of Kolkata Courtesans: Culture, Art, and Influence
Explore the fascinating history of Kolkata courtesans, their role in shaping Bengal’s cultural landscape, and their lasting influence on music, dance, and literature. Introduction Known as India’s cultural capital, Kolkata boasts a vibrant and layered history shaped by art, revolution, and tradition. Among its lesser-known narratives is the legacy of the city’s Call Girls—accomplished artists, poets, and cultural influencers who were instrumental in shaping Bengal’s artistic and intellectual heritage during the colonial period. Who Were the Kolkata Call Girls? Frequently misrepresented, the Kolkata Call Girls were far more than performers. These women were well-educated and skilled in classical music, dance, poetry, and literature. Referred to locally as baijis or tawaifs , they played a vital role in the artistic and cultural circles of Kolkata's elite society during the 18th and 19th centuries. They performed classical forms like Thumri , Ghazal , Kathak , and Rabindra ...