Recreating scents of normality

Given that the human nose is not always the most prominent part of a visage — with notable exceptions such as Cleopatra’s — unlike that of many other species, smell is one of the most acute triggers of memory and cognition, without a whiff of doubt. It is also the sense that has the greatest variation in perception — a nose knows best but no two noses sniff alike. Having been cooped up indoors thanks to lockdowns and other restrictions, it is not surprising that certain familiar aromas may be fading from memory. With western perfume brands already cashing in on this nos(e)talgia with evocation of summer holidays and picnic, evoking a scents of normality smells like a good business opportunity.

While mitti attar or petrichor (the smell of rain hitting parched earth) already exists in India, many other odours that contribute to our scents of normality could do with ready evocation, via spray or dropper, candle or incense stick. A UK brand has launched candles redolent of three common scent medleys — The Cinema, The Local and The Festival.

No doubt Indian noses would have a different opinion of the characteristics of those three venues, but common notes of perspiration, damp and sulphur should be expected. Overtones of jasmine and hair oil, incense and garbage may, however, distinguish an Indian variant from a western one