The scent permeates your house – the outer one where you reside, and the inner one where you exist! Most of us grew up with this comforting scent pervading our houses. We are talking about incense sticks or agarbatti, as it is known in India
What is agarbatti?
Did you know?
Agar is known as Oud in the Arab world. Interestingly, it is called Oudavati in South India as well.
In Sanskrit, the word Agaru means ‘light-weight’; while the Agar tree is a strong and durable one, it is also soft and light in weight.
Agar is an evergreen tree from which incense sticks are made. Batti means wick. So, the wick made from the agarwood is called agarbatti. Since the Agar tree is found in India’s tropical climate, India is a leading producer of incense sticks.
Agarbatti is a norm in most Indian households. Some people burn them daily, while others reserve them for special occasions. Like camphor, this scent has a way of transporting you to a divine and higher space. Sambhrani and dhoop are variations of agarbatti.
Tradition of agarbatti
It is a tradition in India to light lamps or diyas/deepams and agarbattis every morning and evening in houses. This is done to spread fragrance and usher in good energy. It is believed that scented fumes will ward off unpleasant omens and odors alike.
However, Agar has traveled to different parts of Asia such as China and Japan with the spread of Buddhism. Various rituals across Asia include the burning of incense. There is, even, a mention of Aloe or Agar tree in the Old Testament, with Adam planting this tree, in Paradise Wood, where he settled with Eve. Europeans use its fragrance in perfumed oils. Agar wood’s medicinal properties are recognized by Sunni and Shia Muslims.
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