Rehwa Society

Rehwa Society recognized the need to empower women in a traditionally male-dominated craft like weaving. It opened doors for young women seeking purpose and income, many of whom had faced significant hardships. Today, 85% of REHWA Society's weavers are women, reflecting its ongoing commitment to providing opportunities and support to empower them.

As the Rehwa Society gained recognition in the late 1990s, it expanded its efforts to fulfil additional ideals. With the support of Richard and Sally Holkar, Ahilya Vihar Colony was established, offering 40 subsidized houses for weavers' families in proximity to Rehwa's main office at Ahilya Fort. The organisation ensured consistent access to electricity and water supply and established a hospital to cater to medical needs. Providing further support, Rehwa instituted a Provident Fund Facility for the weavers. Today, with 70 contented weavers and up to 30 staff members, REHWA Society produces between 1100 and 1300 high-quality textiles each month, exemplifying its commitment to holistic well-being and sustainable craftsmanship.

In 1989, Rehwa Society's founders realized their dream of providing high-quality education with the establishment of Ahilya Bal Jyoti School, made possible through a grant from the German aid organisation, BORDA. Beginning with 60 students and 2 teachers, the school has since doubled its enrollment numbers, currently educating 240 students from nursery to Class VIII using the Montessori System. With a team of 16 well-trained teachers and a balanced curriculum designed by consultant Ms. Feroza Mehta, the school not only prepares students rigorously for Government entrance exams but also emphasizes creative thinking, sports, and the craft of handloom weaving. The Ahilya Bal Jyoti School stands as a source of pride and joy for the Rehwa Society, representing one of its most significant achievements to date.

Rehwa Society, in collaboration with the Maheshwar community, launched the #MaheshwarMask campaign as a response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the town's tourism-dependent economy. This campaign not only aims to protect the community by promoting responsible tourism but also creates an inclusive value chain. The mask's fabric is woven by skilled weavers in Maheshwar, followed by stitching by local small-scale units and tailors. The campaign extends to boatmen, store owners, street vendors, and more who act as selling points for the masks, benefiting the entire community. With support from various organisations and media coverage, #MaheshwarMask has garnered widespread backing and recognition.