Kannauj, located in the heart of India, and known as the "Perfume Capital of India." This town has a very rich history and is famous for its traditional craft of making attar, also called "ittr."
Attar is a natural perfume, which is made from plants and flowers. The process of making attar in Kannauj has been passed down through generations and is still done in the traditional way.
This article takes a closer look at the world of attar production in Kannauj, its history, how it is made and why it continues to be so special.
A Glimpse into History
The roots of attar-making in Kannauj can be traced back over a thousand years. Historical accounts suggest that the craft gained prominence during the Mughal era when emperors and nobility were captivated by the delicate, natural fragrances. It is said that Emperor Akbar’s court was perfumed with a blend of exotic scents and the art of making attar received royal patronage, becoming an integral part of Indian culture.
The name “Kannauj” became very synonymous with attar due to its unique geographical and climatic conditions, which are ideal for cultivating fragrant plants and flowers such as jasmine, rose, vetiver and more. Over the centuries, the artisans of Kannauj perfected their craft, passing down their knowledge and techniques through generations.
The Traditional Process of Attar-Making
Making attar is a detailed and time-consuming process that combines nature’s gifts with human skill. Even with modern technology, the artisans of Kannauj stick to traditional methods to keep their pure and authentic attar true to its craft.
The process has several main steps:
Selection of Raw Materials
The first step in making attar is choosing the best raw materials. Flowers like roses, jasmine, and marigold are commonly used, along with sandalwood, vetiver and herbs. Only the freshest and most fragrant flowers are picked because their quality affects the final perfume.
Hydro-Distillation
Kannauj uses a traditional method called hydro-distillation, which has stayed the same for centuries. Large copper pots, called degs, are used to heat the flowers and water. A bamboo pipe connects the deg to a receiving pot, called a bhapka. The setup is sealed with clay and cotton to prevent steam from escaping.
Gentle Heating
The deg is heated with a wood or cow-dung fire, keeping the temperature steady. The heat turns the flower's essential oils into vapor, which mixes with steam. This scented steam travels through the bamboo pipe and condenses in the bhapka.
Mixing with Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood oil is used as the base for traditional attar. It acts as a fixative, making the scent last longer. The condensed oil and steam mix with the sandalwood oil in the bhapka. This process can take days or even weeks to create the desired fragrance.
Decanting and Aging
After distillation, the attar is carefully poured out and aged. Aging helps the fragrance develop its full richness. Some attars are aged for months or even years, creating deeper and more complex scents.
Types of Attars Produced in Kannauj
Kannauj is famous for making many types of attars, each with its own special smell and meaning. Some of the most popular ones are:
Gulab (Rose) Attar
Rose attars are made from fresh rose petals, this attar has a sweet, floral fragrance. It is often used in religious ceremonies and for personal care.
Khus (Vetiver) Attar
This attar is made from the roots of the vetiver plant. It has an earthy, cooling scent that is perfect for hot weather.
Kewra (Screwpine) Attar
Kewra attar has a fruity and floral fragrance. It is used in cooking and as a base for other perfumes.
Mitti (Earth) Attar
This unique attar smells like wet earth after the first rain. It brings feelings of nostalgia and a connection to nature.
Hina Attar
Hina attar is a mix of herbs, spices, and flowers. It has a warm, spicy scent and is often used during festivals and celebrations.
The Timeless Appeal of Attar
Attar is made naturally without alcohol or synthetic chemicals, making it a favorite for people who want eco-friendly and skin-friendly perfumes. Its importance in culture and spirituality also keeps it popular in rituals, festivals and personal use.
Recently, there has been more interest around the world in sustainable and handmade products. This gives hope for the revival of traditional attar-making. Efforts are also underway to get Geographical Indication (GI) status for Kannauj attar. This would help protect and promote this special craft.
Conclusion
Kannauj’s attar-making is not just a craft; it is a legacy of passion, tradition and a deep connection to nature. As people around the world turn to more natural and sustainable products, this ancient art has the chance to be appreciated globally.
By protecting and promoting this tradition, we can make sure the lovely fragrances of Kannauj continue to inspire future generations.