The fourteenth exhibition is on Tawayifs, or Courtesans, distinguishing itself from past portrait collections, spotlighting the historical significance of these women in India. Unlike other exhibits featuring well-known artists, these images capture the hidden stories of courtesans who played a pivotal role in India’s art and culture. Featuring over 150 19th-century photographs, the catalog reveals the glamour of Tawayifs’ lives, challenging historical norms. Blurring distinctions over time, the exhibition highlights the power and inspiration of these unsung women who left an indelible mark on India’s cultural landscape.
