Tawaif: Tracing the History of Courtesans in Hindi Cinema

18 September, 2024

The word tawaf in Urdu, means “to circle around or spin.” Special performers trained to entertain nobles and royals often used Kathak as part of their routine. And since Kathak involved a lot of spinning, these women came to be known as tawaifs.

Hindi cinema’s preoccupation with the tawaif figure has been integral in shaping our understanding of working women. The tawaif is the guardian of tehzeeb (culture). She is the outsider, navigating realms of desire, morality, and artistic expression. She is a threat to the patriarchy, yet her image is often painted through the male gaze.

Come explore this delicate balance with Tawaif: Tracing the History of Courtesans in Hindi Cinema with our digital experience opening this weekend.

All events this weekend are free and open to all.

Guided Walk | Tawaif: Tracing the History of Courtesans in Hindi Cinema

September 21 & 22, Saturday & Sunday | Multiple Timings

Learn about the evolution of courtesans in Hindi cinema through never-before-seen film ephemera and a guided walk led by Dr. Saumya Mani Tripathi. ?

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Film Screening | Umrao Jaan

September 22, Sunday | 3:00 pm

This weekend, step back in time for a screening of the classic film, Umrao Jaan, directed by Muzaffar Ali. Watch Rekha’s iconic portrayal of Amiran, a girl who is kidnapped from Faizabad and forced to become a tawaif in Lucknow.

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Quiz | Movie Mania: Bollywood Quiz

September 22, Sunday | 5:30 pm

Test your knowledge of classic Hindi films, characters, music and film ephemera in this first-of-its-kind Bollywood themed quiz at MAP.

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Ongoing Exhibitions at MAP

Explore space and movement through shifting perspectives, a play of colours, and tactile experience at Painting with Fire: Jeram Patel & Tarik Currimbhoy

Learn about the world of metal casting and community led practices at Outside In: Meera Mukherjee and Jaidev Baghel

Find inspiration and wonder through the life and works of Krishna Reddy in Rhyme Unbroken: Krishna Reddy

Delve into perceptions of femininity and gender as social constructs through Visible/Invisible: Representations of Women in Art through the MAP Collection

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Museum of Art & Photography, Bengaluru

22, Kasturba Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001 Phone: +91 80 6933 4100

All images, unless otherwise stated, courtesy MAP.

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