The word agarbatti comes from the combination of the Tamil word "agil" or "agir" and the Sanskrit word "varti," which means "stick." In ancient texts, the term "dhūpavarti" is commonly used to refer to various types of stick incense recipes. The Vedas, particularly the Atharva-veda and the Rigveda, advocated for a consistent method of making incense. While the Vedic texts mention incense being used to mask odors and create a pleasant scent, the organized practice of incense-making was likely developed by medicinal priests. This process is closely tied to the Ayurvedic medical system. The Mahabharata categorizes incense dhupa into three types: niryasa, which includes resins like Commiphora wightii, Shorea robusta, and boswellia serrata; sarin, which consists of heartwoods from aloeswood, sandalwood, roots, flowers, and herbs; and kritrima, which refers to artificially produced ingredients like jaggery or molasses from sugarcane. The combination of these three types has been the basis for incense-making since ancient times. The practice of utilizing incense for healing purposes became integrated into religious practices over time. In the Dharmaśāstra and Puranic texts, incense ingredients are listed as sandalwood, aloeswood, camphor, musk, saffron, piper cubeba, resins, jaggery, ghee, honey, fragrant flowers, and others. Incense also became an important part of Buddhism when it spread to China in around 200 CE through a group of Buddhist monks. In Hindu rituals, incense is employed to eliminate unpleasant smells in the air. By filling the air with a pleasant aroma, it establishes an auspicious atmosphere for the ritual. Incense sticks also act as organic disinfectants by repelling insects when they release smoke. In Hinduism, bamboo sticks are strictly prohibited as they are not to be burned. Incense also possesses psychological benefits. The fragrance of incense has a calming effect on the mind, enhancing focus during rituals. Prayer offered with a calm mind can be akin to a meditation process. Incense holds spiritual significance as well. The incense stick burns completely into ashes while still filling the air with a delightful scent. This ritual symbolizes the human virtue of sacrificing oneself for the greater good of society. Furthermore, incense sticks are used as air fresheners on regular days and are an integral part of every Hindu ceremony.
Comments