لغت بے سر
the out of tuned connotations compiled
tracing tales of a few South Asian de��nitions attempted revision and reclaimation in collaboration with legendary musical Ustaadzas and unfortunate societies.
volume one by anita zehra
instructions for the weak (h)ear(t)ed 1. read de��nitions with a pinch of salt 2. understand the history 3. enjoy the art
; طوائف
nautch // baiji // naikins // kathak // courtesans thuv-a-if // noun performing artist of noble families, excelling in the ��eld of music, dance, poetry, prose. A reputable persona with incredible discipline and ettiquets.
sons were sent to learn adaab
the unwritten guide inside a kotha
code of conduct: 1. must belong to a household of Chaudryana (chief) 2. mujra inside a hall of mirrors
laws for attendees: 1.rich patrons 2. no one is allowed to bring their own alcohol 3. no one is allowed to o�fer money to dancers 4.money must be left under your mattress 5. the money is later divided between tawaif, her ustaad, teacher and the artist
western fascination \\ گورى توجہ
the unwanted daughters , the seductive mistresses, exotic performances
ناتھ اتاراى// coming of age ceremony
a ceremony for tawaif going into the ��eld as a professional artist/ adult woman
de�lowering \\
ناتھ اترنا
changing nose ornament from simple ring to a pearl or diamond studded pin // ‘ready for marriage’.
چن چن كے پہول لے لو ارمان رہ نہ جاۓ