Auroshikha Incense

Auroshikha was founded in 1973 in Pondicherry, India, and is a part of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. They claim to have good working practises.  As Auroshikha are part of the Pondicherry scene, and present themselves as using the "best and purest ingredients to ensure a very high quality of products that are wholly in conformity with IFRA (International Fragrance Association, Geneva, Switzerland)", they give the impression that their products are pure and natural. However, IFRA is only concerned with safety of fragrance products, not how nice they smell, and they don't issue certificates for essential oils, only fragrance oils and perfumes, natural and synthetic.  So saying you comply with IFRA is making a statement that you use synthetics. Synthetics are fine - often more aromatic and "true to nature" than pure essential oils (such is the fragility of the natural fragrance of some plants); however, a number of people who would be attracted to Auroshikha would be drawn by the belief that Auroshikha are using pure natural ingredients. 

The Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry

They have a wide range of incenses which sell for around a £1 for 15g. Each packet has the same basic swirling design. each fragrance noted with a different colour. The packet designs are modest, and convey a calm, serene mood.

Some of the fragrances in the range

The sticks are hand rolled with a charcoal base, and then perfume dipped - some are also rolled in a masala blend of spices.

Reviews

*= Reviews over five years old so may not be reliable

Auroshika Sandalwood (P)
April 2014 - Score: 26*

Auroshika Frankincense (M)
April 2014 - Score: 25*

Auroshikha True to Nature 
 - five scents plus one 
April 2023 - Score: 22

Auroshika Rosemary (P)
April 2014 - Score: 21*

Reviews: 4

Highest score: 26

Lowest score: 21

Average: 21

Conclusion: Because the incense is made in association with the  Sri Aurobindo Ashram, so has connections with respected incense makers  The Mother's, and Cottage Industries, and the company make claims about their purity and closeness to nature and traditional ways, I was inclined to explore the incense seriously. But my conclusions are that these True to Nature are the same as the company's Marbled incense, and that despite the use of essential oils, the scents are weak, and burn off quickly.  I have little interest in burning any more Auroshikha. 

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