THE  WHITE OUD

Ancient Origins and Royal Patronage

The art of perfume-making in Kannauj dates back centuries, with references to its fragrant industry found in ancient texts like the Vedas, Kamasutra, and Charak Samhita. During the reign of King Harshavardhana in the 7th century AD, Kannauj was a major city and likely had a thriving perfume industry.The Mughal era, particularly under the rule of Akbar and Jahangir in the 16th-17th centuries, saw a major boost in Kannauj's perfume industry. Queen Noor Jahan, an enthusiastic patron of fragrances, is said to have played a key role in the development of attar-making techniques. The perfumes crafted in Kannauj were highly sought after by the Mughal emperors and nobility.

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Traditional Techniques and Unique Scents

Kannauj's attars are created using traditional methods passed down through generations of perfumers. The process involves boiling flower petals in copper cauldrons, capturing the fragrant vapors, and allowing them to condense into a base oil like sandalwood. This eco-friendly technique, known as "deg bhapka", uses cow dung and wood as fuel, without relying on heavy machinery or electricity.The city's fertile soil and climate make it ideal for growing flowers like jasmine, vetiver, and damask rose, which are used in many of Kannauj's signature scents. One of the most famous is mitti attar, which captures the earthy, petrichor-like scent of the first rain on soil.

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As a brand, Me Verdure can draw inspiration from Kannauj's rich history and commitment to natural, sustainable perfume-making. By incorporating traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Me Verdure can create unique, long-lasting scents that honor the fragrant legacy of this remarkable city.