Women played a major role in the building and patronage of the stepwells in Gujarat, unique structures that linked three worlds: the subterranean, the earthly and the celestial. Women not only commissioned many of the stepwells as patrons and doners, but they also frequently served as inspiration for them. The steps were often built to honour a virtuous wife or benevolent mother, a local goddess or a beloved mistress and were also named after them.