Issues and Concerns of Intimate Partner Relationship of Devadasi Sex Workers in the Rural North Karnataka, India

The objective of the present study is to understand the issues and concerns of intimate partner relationship of Devadasi sex workers. Literature suggests that Devadasi sex workers are being in an intimate relationship and been victims of the violence and looses power for condom negotiation. Condom use within intimate relationships is often seen as a sign of infidelity and fosters mistrust which could affect longevity, trust and intimacy within partnerships. Data were gathered through in-person interviews during the field visit. Using qualitative data from Devadasi sex workers and their intimate male partners in Bagalkot District, Karnataka, India, we examined both partners’ perspectives to understand the quality and dynamics of these relationships. Devadasi sex workers and their intimate partners define their relationships as ‘like marriage’ which reduced their motivation to use condoms. Violence from their intimate partner is very common in their relationship. Devadasi sex workers do feel being abused, but accept it as they feel mentally secured and recognition, as they have a regular visitor to their home. Devadasi sex workers accept the violence from their intimate partner as a symbol of love. Couple-based interventions may be more effective than individual-based interventions in promoting safer sex behaviours within intimate relationships.