Airbnb, the peer-to-peer network for rental accommodation, recently signed a partnership with the Self-Employed Women’s Association (Sewa), a non-profit, for rural home-stays in Gujarat. When its director, Reema Nanavaty, shared the news with thousands of Sewa bens (sisters in Gujarati), some embraced the idea wholeheartedly. Valiben Parmar, a 65-year-old Sewa leader, was one of them. “We consider guests as our god, and letting them see our lifestyle, acquainting them with our village’s history while bringing home Lakshmi? Why should I say no to such a delightful chance?” says the lively, white-haired matriarch who earns a regular income developing self-help groups, extending loans and adding members to Sewa.

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