Maheshwar is noted as a center for weaving colorful Maheshwari saris.
At Ahilya Fort, the 17th century Moghul-built fort, is the Rehwa non-profit weaving center. Rehwa –an old name for the river – boasts 130 looms, and employs 300 people, mostly women. Preference is given to widows. Housed within the fort, the airy layout is cooled by breezes off the Narmada.
Focused on Weaving
It is said that of the five most sacred rivers of India – Ganga, Yamuna, Narmada, Godavari and Kaveri, Narmada is the holiest. It is also said that when Ganga herself feels unclean, she takes the form of a black cow and using the darkness of the night as her cover, comes to cleanse herself in the waters of the Narmada.
The Narmada, for most of its course flows through Madhya Pradesh. Owing to its sanctity, there are many temple towns on the river including Maheshwar. This tiny town on the banks of the Narmada is known not for its temples but for its benevolent queen, Ahilyabai Holkar, considered by many as a goddess.
Viewing the Narmada River from the porch of Ahilya Fort, Maheshwar …
A View of Narmada River from Ahilya Fort
Maheshwar – literally means the abode of ‘Lord Mahesh’ – another name for Shiva and is located along the Narmada River and hence an important pilgrimage site.
Ahilyeshwar Temple, inside the temple complex of Ahilya Fort Maheshwar overlooking Narmada River
Temple at Ahilya Fort Overlooking Narmada River
Photos by Ravi 