Since time immemorial, Incense has been used by man and is one of the oldest forms of perfumery. Many traditions refer to the practice of fumigating, in reference to both celebrations and religious practices. In Latin, the word perfumery takes its root from ‘penetrating smoke’ referring to the ancient practice of fumigation.
In Arab and Islamic culture, utilising incense known as Bakhoor is a tradition that has continually been practiced for centuries and the torch-bearers of this tradition have been the women folk.
Lovingly, with pride in her ability to welcome both her guests and the guests of her tribe she would dedicatedly formulate different Bakhoor for different occasions. When the daughters of a household were to be married and bid farewell, this was an art bequeathed unto them. Many gifts of bakhoor were taken with the woman to her husbands’ home, where she would continue the cherished tradition inherited from her mother.
When it came to the royal courts, the Amirs and Sultans had their own specialist artisans who were responsible for fumigating and perfuming their court and palaces. These specialists would enquire around the lands taking keen interest in the households who had the best bakhoor so they could take inspiration from them, adding to their inventory.
The pursuit for excellence in bakhoor composition, both in the home and in the laboratory of the Amirs artisans. was driven by a deeply-rooted love in the DNA of culture for fine smells. For this was to welcome guests to their abode-and as the saying goes “the guest is the guest of God”.
From the gems of the old, utilised to welcome the Shuyukh, Princes and Kings, is a bakhoor named Rehla. Rehla in the Arabic language means a trip or journey. Aptly named, as this bakhoor has travelled both time and space. Every generation has added its threads to this perfumed tapestry, refining it with the best of ingredients of their day.
The best of Oudh, including kynam, musk, ambergris, rose, sandalwood, herbs and spices of the most premium quality were blended in perfect portions, to give you the most luxuriating welcoming feel to your abode. With this, you will be even proud to welcome a king.
On low heat, Rehla greets with waves of musky rose, cool oceanic ambergris and wonderful winds of the most tantalising Oudhs, including the opulence of delicate kynamic notes.
Rehla is your chance to sample the incense utilised in the courts of kings and amirs.
