1. Amrapali is mentioned in the old Pali texts and Buddhist traditions, particularly in conjunction with the Buddha staying at her mango grove, Ambapali vana, which she later donated to his order and wherein he preached the famous Ambapalika Sutra.
16 Facts About Amrapali
1. 2.
Amrapali grew up to be a lady of extraordinary charm and grace, and was talented in many art forms.
3.
When Manudev, king of Vaishali, saw Amrapali perform a dance in the city, he plotted to "own" her.
4.
Amrapali was bestowed with the title of Vaishali Janpad Kalayani, given to the most beautiful and talented girl of the kingdom for a period of seven years.
5.
Amrapali had the right to choose her lovers, but according to the aforementioned custom, she could not be committed to any one man.
6.
Amrapali is a celebrated rajnartaki in the ancient Vaishali.
7.
Amrapali was proficient in music, dance, hunting, archery, horse handling etc.
8.
When she learned his true identity, Amrapali asked Bimbisara to leave and cease his war.
9.
Amrapali was so moved by her beauty that when Amrapali was imprisoned, he burned the whole of Vaishali.
10.
In Buddhist records, Amrapali is noted as having had the opportunity to serve food to the Buddha during his last visit to Vaishali, shortly before his death.
11.
Amrapali attended his sermon at a nearby grove and was so deeply moved by it that she invited him for a meal at her quarters.
12.
In other accounts, it is stated that the Buddha himself took shelter in her mango groves and was visited by Amrapali who paid her obeisance to him and then extended the invitation.
13.
Amrapali received the Buddha with her retinue in her grand residence which had been specially decorated for the occasion.
14.
Amrapali dedicated her life to the service of the poor and the destitutes.
15.
The story of Amrapali is significant for understanding contemporary attitudes of courtesans.
16.
Amrapali ate at her residence and accepted her grove for the Buddhist order.