Ganika in ancient India was a maiden who made her living by
means of her personal beauty, her skills in the fine arts and capacity to
provide pleasure. Some scholars equate her with harlot or courtesan. She was not from a particular caste. The term
is also used to refer to a woman who makes a living by her beauty (ganika
rupajiva).
In some ancient kingdoms, the most beautiful woman was
appointed as a ganika and it was a respectable post.
As per Arthashastra, Ganika was inducted to the profession
only if she so desires.
Patronage and maintenance of a Ganika was seen as a status
symbol in ancient times.
They were also associated with dance and temple arts.