Devadasi
Devadasi (female slaves of the gods) In Hinduism, dancers and courtesans who are connected with various ceremonies devoted to images of the gods, such as singing, dancing before the god when he is carried in procession, and purifying the temple floor with cow dung and water. They are considered married to the god. Every temple, based on its size, had eight or more dancers.
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow– Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante