Fragrance Brands Capture Nostalgia with Scents of Memory and Place

The fragrance industry is increasingly creating scents that help us recall specific memories and places. For many consumers, perfumes serve as connections to cherished moments or locations. Abhishek Sengupta, who moved from Mumbai to Kolkata, chose a fragrance to remind him of Mumbai’s distinct atmosphere. He selected Byredo’s Mumbai Noise, a blend of woody and amber tones with hints of leather, coffee, and tonka bean.

India’s fragrance market is growing steadily, with natural and traditional scents becoming increasingly popular. Non-luxury fragrances dominate sales, which reflects a shift toward accessibility and eco-friendly choices. Brands like Bombay Perfumery and Forest Essentials cater to this demand.

Bombay Perfumery’s Chai Musk reflects Mumbai’s energy and chai culture. Forest Essentials’ Nargis highlights floral oils from Kashmir. Both brands incorporate locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques.

Call of the Valley, a Mumbai-based brand, offers perfume oils inspired by Indian landscapes, further demonstrating how scents can reflect a connection to specific places. These perfumes appeal to individuals who associate specific aromas with meaningful experiences or environments.