Jawaja Dhurries have their roots in the weaving traditions of the Bhambi/Bunkar community in the Jawaja–Beawar region of Rajasthan. Originally, the craft was a small-scale activity where weavers used simple pit looms to create woollen shawls and household textiles for personal use or barter.

In 1975, a major turning point came when IIM Ahmedabad initiated the Rural University Project under Prof. Ravi Mathai and invited NID Ahmedabad, led by Prof. Ashok Chatterjee. Designers Helena Peerhenthupa and Neelam Iyer worked closely with the weavers to refine skills, improve dyeing and weaving quality, and introduce modern design understanding.

This collaboration eventually led to the creation of Artisan Alliance Jawaja (AAJ) and the Jawaja Weavers Association (JWA), empowering artisans to manage production, innovation, and marketing independently.

Jawaja Dhurries today are known for their durability, strong structure, and bold geometric patterns. Techniques used include:

• Flat weave
• Inlay
• Frame weaving
• Cut-shuttle detailing

This craft stands as a successful example of design-led rural development in India.