The Mahout
The word 'mahout' (derived from Hindi) is the keeper of an elephant. Utilized for centuries because of their strength in warfare, hunting and industrial work, the elephant was a prized possession. So significant were these animals that they were often given as gifts and celebrated and adorned centerpieces of grand festivities.
A mahout was typically assigned to his elephant when he was a child and the two would spend a lifetime together. The mahout's role was not only to train the elephant, but to provide the utmost care - inclusive of much attention, bathing and feeding. It was a prestigious position that was often passed from father to son. Throughout history and into present day, there are stories of extreme cruelty, while there are others that tell of an unmistakable bond between the animal and its keeper. Whether ruling with force or with love, the one commonality all keepers shared was their devotion to the care, the nourishment and the life of the elephant.
While many elephants are still kept by mahouts (and often in difficult and unsustainable conditions), a great many others are abandoned because the owner is no longer able to care for them due to space or expense - or both. In either scenario, land is limited and so are resources. Orphaned elephants are frequently subjected to tourist related activities run by facilities ill equipped to care for them, suffering various types of abuse and neglect. Boutique Mahout supports various efforts that are dedicated to elephants in need.
A small, woman owned business in Utah, Boutique Mahout was inspired by travel and continues to be so! No matter where we call home or the language we speak, there is a common thread that unites us all. When sourcing our inspirations, we choose to work with independent artisans and small businesses like ours as much as possible. We believe that by doing so, we are empowering independent business owners and entrepreneurial spirits. We remain dedicated to finding beauty and making the world just a little bit more glorious.