Where did apsaras come from?

An apsaras or apsara (Sanskrit apsaras [also apsarā], Pali accharā) is a type of female spirit of the clouds and waters in Hindu and Buddhist culture. They figure prominently in the sculpture, dance, literature and painting of many South Asian and Southeast Asian cultures.

Are apsaras courtesans?

In the Vedas, the apsaras are water nymphs, often married to the gandharvas. By the time the Puranas and the two epics were composed, the apsaras and gandharvas had become performing artists to the gods; the apsaras are singers, dancers, and courtesans, while the gandharvas are musicians.

Who is most beautiful apsara?

Urvashi
Urvashi (Sanskrit: उर्वशी, romanized: Urvaśī) is an apsara (celestial nymph) in Hindu mythology. She is considered to be the most beautiful of all the apsaras and an expert dancer. Urvashi is mentioned in many Vedic and Puranic scriptures of Hinduism.

Who are gandharvas in Mahabharata?

Gandharvas are mentioned extensively in the epic Mahabharata as associated with the Devas (as dancers and singers) and with the Yakshas, as formidable warriors. They are mentioned as spread across various territories.

Who were apsaras Quora?

There are two types of apsaras which are Laukika(worldly) and Daivika(divine). Ten apsaras of Lord India’s court are mentioned. The apsaras within Lord India’s court and lovely dancers and beautiful. There are two types of apsaras which are Laukika(worldly) and Daivika(divine).

What is Apsaras job?

apsara, in Indian religion and mythology, one of the celestial singers and dancers who, together with the gandharvas, or celestial musicians, inhabit the heaven of the god Indra, the lord of the heavens. Originally water nymphs, the apsaras provide sensual pleasure for both gods and men.

What is the difference between Yaksha and gandharva?

Gandharvas and Kinnaras are the musicians of the gods. They may have the head or body of a horse or some other animal or bird. Gandharvas are also good healers. Yakshas are nature spirits, who can be good or evil.

What did apsaras do?