Sandalwood: Fragrance of the east, in Bangalore

"How many are the trees on earth that bear
the scented flower and juicy fruits!
Yet, O' Sandal you are unique in possessing
unparalleled fragrance of wood."
——Sanskrit hymn

Sandalwood for centuries has played an integral part in worship, healing and ceremonies. Other than its singular fragrance, sandalwood has also been used extensively in Ayurveda as an antidote to cardiac problems, headaches and stomach ailments.

Karnataka produces over 70 per cent of India’s sandalwood, and Bangalore is the ideal place to buy sandalwood products. There are many outlets in the city but be careful before you swipe your card, lest you end up buying sham junk. Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium, a government enterprise, is the safest place for great deals and some real cool stuff. Located at MG Road, this shop weaves magic spells of rich sandalwood fragrance, drawing in the passersby.

Other emporia closeby are Central Cottage Industries, Kairali and Natesan’s Antiqarts. For art enthusiasts and collectors, the market literally overflows with items like small jewellery boxes, sandalwood oils, incense, carved furniture and awe-inspiring mythological creations.

For the casual buyer there are sandalwood cosmetics at Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Pvt Ltd. Set up in 1916, it makes the best sandalwood cosmetics in the country. Mysore Sandal Soap, one of its products, got a shot in the arm when MS Dhoni, India’s flamboyant wicket-keeper, signed a contract to endorse it.

Today, due to illegal poaching, sandalwood is protected by the government and all transactions are done through government agencies. So, next time when you indulge in aroma therapy or soak in the fumes amidst prayers spare a thought for this humble tree with a heart of gold.