Apsaras - celestial dancers of Cambodia

Apsaras are the most beautiful girls in Cambodia who perform an ancient traditional dance. In Khmer mythology, apsaras are maidens who descended to earth, endowed with divine appearance and grace. This name comes from India, with whose culture Cambodia has much in common. The dance performed by girls also has Indian roots and appeared many centuries ago.

In Cambodia, apsaras are an important part of the country's cultural heritage. Graceful dancers in exquisite precious costumes can be seen on the bas-reliefs of ancient Khmer temples such as Angkor. According to legend, these girls entertained the celestials in the palace of the god Indra. But this was not their only function.

Indra often sent apsaras to earth to seduce and distract hermits from meditation. God felt the danger emanating from the spiritual power of these people, whose power was approaching the divine. Judging by Indian and Khmer legends, apsaras sometimes managed to lead even the most persistent philosophers astray.

Apsaras are sometimes called demigoddesses—spirits of clouds or water. In Hindu legends, they are endowed with serious magical powers. These girls were credited with the ability to move through the air, turn into people, animals or plants, and control the weather. Apsaras could send curses that caused illness or even death.

Apsaras also have weaknesses. Legends mention more than once that these demigoddesses are crazy about gambling and wine. Therefore, the easiest way to defeat an apsara or win her heart is to use these vices. Hindus believe that apsaras can marry ordinary people, thereby losing their magical powers.

Since these dance performers symbolize higher powers, high demands are placed on them. Dancers should be short, have a thin waist, wide hips and high breasts. An important condition is also small and thin feet and palms.

Apsaras have always been revered in Cambodia, and this work was considered prestigious. Nothing has changed these days—thousands of girls dream of getting into an apsara school. In a poor Asian country, this profession guarantees high demand and good income. Many apsaras are so successful that they not only support themselves, but also help their families.

In schools they are taught not only to dance, but also to care for their figure, face and body. Girls must maintain a pale skin color, which is not at all easy for naturally dark-skinned Cambodians. To look like a celestial dancer, apsaras use sunscreens and masks, as well as skin whitening products. Both traditional folk recipes and modern products from leaders in the cosmetics market are used.