Traces Have We Lost the Contributions of Devadasis to the Tamil Society and Their Social Responsibility

The Devadasi system, an ancient religious institution had played a significant role in the medieval Tamil Society. The expression Devadasi in Sanskrit or Devaradiyar in Tamil refers to not only a dancing girl dedicated or attached to the spiritual service to Gods and Goddesses in the temples but also played a vital role on public utility services. They were known by different names as Tali-Cerip Pendiugal.1 Manikkattar, Ganikaiyar, Devaradiyar, Padiyilar, Rishabhattaliyilar, Kavirippina and Rajadasis.