Kannauj, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, presents a distinctive cultural and archaeological heritage tour. According to certain ancient Hindu texts, it was formerly known as Mahodya or Kanyakubja. In the past, the city was far more well-known.
Kannauj then
A well-known Chinese pilgrim named Fa-hien commended Kannauj and its inhabitants for their development and friendliness. Mahmud of Ghazni, the Muslim conqueror of Kannauj, noted the city’s unparalleled splendor. They still appear to be true to some extent for contemporary travelers. Due to the area’s close ties to the Mahabharata, Aryans, Mitra, Rashtrakuta, and Buddhism, there is a variety of Bronze Age artifacts including tools, sculptures, and coins.
The smell of ‘attar’, a fragrant oil (extracted from flowers and herbs; known for its long-lasting smell and therapeutic value), which lingers in the lanes of Kannauj and creates an evocative experience with the sights of old monuments, is what makes exploring the city’s Mughal architectures, though, a special experience. The inhabitants of Kannauj, who have run perfumeries here for many centuries, are genetically predisposed to “attar.” When it came to the trade of perfume between India and the Middle East, Kannauj used to be a key location.
In Kannauj, there are centuries-old perfume shops on every street corner. However, as chemical-based fragrances become more accessible and affordable, the majority of these shops are collapsing and shutting. To further understand these perfumeries, ask around for a tour.
Kannauj Now
As India’s “Capital of Fragrance” or “Perfume,” Kannauj has widespread acclaim. The majority of people refer to it as the City of Attars. Whether it is for the British or just for those who enjoy natural concoctions, this city has earned a reputation for crafting the most potent hitters.
Attars are essential oils that are derived from botanical sources, such as fruits, forests, etc. A true attar is a type of perfume oil that is created using flower petals that have been distilled in water under low heat and pressure. Some attars also include resins, woods, and spices.
Over several weeks, the steam that makes up the fragrant oils is gathered into a bottle of light sandalwood oil. The oils combine there until the sandalwood is completely infused with the floral aroma or fragrances.
As a “base” or “fixative,” sandalwood oil is utilized in the perfumery process. In contrast to floral oil, it interacts with the molecules of fragrance oils and helps their nuances grow and last for a longer time.
Similar to how a quality wine grows better with age, sandalwood-based attar similarly gets better with time. A true attar is the only scent that is more natural.
The Grasse of India is another name for Kannauj. For many centuries, the city has supported perfumers. It’s a fallacy that India has enjoyed monarchical traditions since Noor Jahan introduced them to them.
The city of Kannauj’s perfume makers have done more than merely extract scents from plants. But when they were initially exposed to airborne droplets, they also retrieved these odors from a variety of substances that were prevalent all over the planet.
The enticing aroma of the damp land engulfed by the first rains has been delighted by the perfumers from this fragrant city in the bottles. A very small percentage of people are aware that here is where the main perfume firms and perfumeries from across the globe purchase concentrates, giving Kannauj fragrances a global presence.
Kannauj is familiar with all kinds of wearers.
Romantic Individuals: The most well-known attars produced in Kannauj include roses. For naturally amorous individuals, these scents are extraordinary.
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Lover of Cultural perfumes: Sandalwood is highly sought after by persons who enjoy cultural perfumes.
The aroma of the earth
Mitti Attar, created by the great perfumers of Kannauj, captures the incredibly lovely scent of mitti. Another name for this attar is Itr-e-Khaki. It is produced by distilling partially baked clay. This particular attar has a lovely dry down because of the gentle blend of sandalwood’s glossy tone.
Nature Lovers: These perfumes are typically made from incredibly regional odors from the woods and are intended for those who have a strong connection to the natural world. These fragrances include notes like cedar, patchouli, and agarwood. The greenery helps you stay relaxed while also allowing you to explore your inner self amid nature.
