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Significance of Curtain

The term "Curtain" has various interpretations across different contexts. According to Arthashastra, it refers to fabric panels that incur toll fees when traded. Vyakarana defines it as Pratisira, a fabric used for screens or partitions. In Theravada, it describes dividers in Viharas for Bhikkhus' privacy. In Indian history, curtains are essential theatrical elements that separate performance spaces and create entrances, marking the start and end of plays. Each definition highlights the curtain's multifaceted role in privacy and performance.1
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Synonyms: Partition, Screen, Veil, Shade, Blind, Tapestry, Cloth, Cover.

In Dutch: Gordijn; In Finnish: Verho; In Spanish: Cortina; In German: Vorhang

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Curtain'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, the term "Curtain" symbolizes privacy within Viharas, serving as a divider for Bhikkhus to maintain personal space, particularly during moments of vulnerability or shame when lying down.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga

(1) Dividers allowed in Viharas for privacy, especially for Bhikkhus when ashamed to lie down.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Curtain'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Curtain" refers to fabric panels that can incur toll fees during trade, while "Pratisira" denotes fabric utilized as a screen or partition, symbolizing separation or division in contexts.

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Kautilya Arthashastra

(1) Fabric panels that may incur toll fees when traded.[2]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

The concept of Curtain in local and regional sources

History Books

Curtain pertains to theatrical elements that define performance spaces, acting as a barrier between the stage and audience. Its manipulation signifies the start and conclusion of performances, essential for staging plays effectively.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The curtain is the barrier that separates the stage from the audience, its raising marks the beginning of the dance, and its dropping signals the end of the performance.[3] (2) Theatrical elements that create entrances and separate performance spaces, as described in the text, crucial for staging plays.[4]

Plural form: Curtains.