Smells that remind us of the motherland.
BY AYUSH MADAN
Of the five senses, smell is one that connects us the most to our memories. When we recognise a scent, the brain fires signals reminding us of the places and people that we associate most with that smell, effectively transporting us across space and time. In this edition of Masala Recommends, we compiled a list of fragrances that vividly bring us back to the motherland: India.
- ZARA’S OUD VIBRANT LEATHER, EAU DE PARFUM, 100ML (THB 1,290 AT ZARA)
The rich, woody aroma of Oud is a prized possession in many traditional Indian perfumes. This is due to the deep and exotic character of Oud, and how it can complement floral and spice undertones like in this perfume. The most unique aspect is the leather accord, which balances the fragrance’s citrusy base notes with depth and complexity, creating a mysteriously alluring and masculine scent, and reminding you of what it’s like to roam the busy markets of Karol Bagh.
- BYREDO’S MUMBAI NOISE, EAU DE PARFUM, 50ML (THB 7,350 AT BYREDO)
Mumbai Noise is a unique, unisex, and intense fragrance. With top notes of the Davana herb native to India, the heart of the fragrance is bitter coffee balanced by sweet vanilla from the tonka beans. Combined with the base notes of sandalwood and agarwood, this smell is one that aims to evoke the smoky haze of incense and the streetside coffee carts on a crowded Chembur street.
- JO MALONE’S LONDON GINGER BISCUIT, COLOGNE, 100ML (THB 6,300 AT SEPHORA)
The spices for gingerbread include ginger, cinnamon, and star anise, which are also common ingredients found in masala chai. This special Christmas-themed scent by Jo Malone incorporates these chai spices into its signature fragrance, balancing it with notes of roasted hazelnut and sweet tonka bean. This is a cologne that will last all day, reminding you of your favourite cup of tea and that time of year when you can relax and forget about responsibilities.
- MAISON MARGIELA’S REPLICA MUSIC FESTIVAL, EAU DE TOILETTE, 100ML (THB 5,950 AT SEPHORA)
This list would not be complete without a member of the Replica family, a collection which aims to send you back to a place and moment in time. The earthy and woody scent of this fragrance calls back to Woodstock, 1969, where the fields are alive with music and people. The heart of this fragrance is patchouli, another herb native to India, which is what makes you think of damp earth when you take a whiff. Additionally, patchouli also has grounding and emotionally balancing properties, making this a calming and relaxing fragrance to wear for either sex.
- YVES SAINT LAURENT’S TRENCH – LE VESTIAIRE DES PARFUMS, PARFUM, 125ML, (THB 10,900 AT YSL)
The LE VESTIAIRE DES PARFUMS line is a collection of unisex perfumes which is suitable for all. In the Trench fragrance, the blossom of the bitter orange tree produces a citrusy essential oil with notes of sweetened honey. This is called Neroli and makes up the heart of this perfume. The top notes are tangerine and bergamot, which are balanced out by a dry cedar and white musk base notes.
