Perfumed Heritage: Why Indian Fragrances Are Some Of The Most Sort After On The Planet
The world’s oldest known fragrance tradition is a niche 21st century luxury indulgence for the very discerning the world over, unfold KISHORE AND SMITA IYENGAR.
ORIGINAL HOME TO ESSENCES
India is known to pioneer the art of making perfumes from natural fragrant substances. A tradition that pre-dates 7000 years, the art of natural, non-alcoholic perfume concentrates goes back to the time of the Vedas, the world’s oldest known scriptures and even to the Indus Valley Civilization, -the world’s first and most advanced. India being the treasure house of natural resources, the stunning diversity of innumerable flowers, herbs, spices and woods contribute to creating some of the world’s most exquisite and ethereal fragrances till date.
One of India’s oldest surviving traditional perfumeries is Gulabsingh Johrimal, dating back to 1816 in the heart of old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk quarter. Dodging the din and bustle, we step into this cozy fragrant haven welcoming us with intoxicating aromas of rose, jasmine, musk and oud permeating from traditional, antique Belgian-cut bottles neatly placed in sturdy wooden shelves.
Read the full article here: