Gaṇikā

Gaṇikā or ganika (Sanskrit: गणिका) were female courtesans in early Ancient India, with their earliest reference in the Vedic period. Mentioned in the Kamasutra, Gaṇikās were also dubbed as "courtesans de luxe," this was how Indians in early Ancient India, separated them from veshyas, who were also courtesans. Moti Chandra, an Indian scholar who suggested that "In the hierarchy of courtesans, the kumbhadasi occupied the lowest place and the Gaṇikās the highest." This suggests that Gaṇikās, were not merely prostitutes or normal courtesans, but they were considered "premium courtesans." It is similar to how there is a difference between an Oiran and a Geisha.

According to the Kamasutra, for veshyas or any courtesans to become recognized as a Gaṇikā, they had to master and become well-versed in the 64 arts of Kalā. After earning the title of Gaṇikā, they were revered for being the most virtuous, most beautiful and luxurious courtesan of all courtesans. They were even on par with the princesses of early India. They would use these arts to entertain kings, princes, and other wealthy patrons on religious and social occasions. With that said, they were the pride and joys of the Kingdom, as they were honored by the King and nobles, praised by the public and every courtesan strived to be a Gaṇikā.