Incense sticks, commonly known as agarbathi, have been used since time immemorial for various religious rituals and continue to hold significance even today. However, their use is not restricted to religion and prayer only; they, in fact, serve a crucial role in every Indian household in several other capacities.
While they may be a representation of positivity in certain homes, they are also a source of spirituality in others. There’s nothing quite like returning home to a welcoming fragrance that instantly uplifts our senses and soothes our mind after a hectic day. Incense sticks energize the environment, the mind and the soul and create a positive aura.
To commemorate its rich culture, India shares the purity and aroma of incense sticks with several other nations. It is no wonder that agarbathi has gained popularity in other countries and cultures over the years. With the West having understood and acknowledged the goodness of incense sticks, the demand for these have skyrocketed around the world. Incense sticks today are not only preferred for their pleasant scents, but also for their role in creating a peaceful ambience.
As a result of this, India has grown from being one of the largest consumers of incense sticks to its biggest suppliers in the world, catering to both domestic and international markets. In addition to the feel-good factor, incense sticks have garnered the attention of people pursuing yoga, meditation and spirituality, which are now popular across ethnicities, cultures and age-groups. With yoga, Ayurveda and the eastern philosophies of wellness making their way into the western households, incense sticks, too, have found a way into people’s lifestyles in a big way.
Given Ayurveda’s emphasis on the contribution of incense sticks in the treatment of ailments and the preservation of good health, this has become one of the additional drivers of global demand for agarbathi. Ayurvedic practitioners consider lavender, sandalwood, sage, and rose to be calming, whereas cinnamon, ginger, and mint are considered to help revive and invigorate the human brain.
They also promote relaxation, aid sound sleep, improve concentration, inspire creativity and boost mental wellness, thus significantly reducing stress and anxiety levels, which are commonplace in today’s competitive environment and high-pressure jobs. To summarise, agarbathi is a universally accepted heritage product that transcends religions and symbolises peace, harmony and spirituality.