Ferozi Tawayif of Delhi

The word "tawaif" comes from the Arabic word "taifa", which means "group" or "troupe." In early India, courtesans were often referred to by the Sanskrit word "ganika". These women were skilled in the arts and entertained wealthy patrons. During the Mughal era, these entertainers started to form their own communities and groups which led to the adoption of the word "tawaif" to describe them. Over time, the term "tawaif" became more associated with courtesans and dancers who were skilled in music, poetry, and conversation. They held a prominent position in Mughal society, entertaining royalty and nobility. Note the hookah and paan dan beneath the woman, who looks anything but happy.