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, and abide by the guidelines of the International Fragrance Association,  in Geneva.

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.

Auroshika Sandalwood

Light pleasant aroma with notes of violets. Quite soft, but with a natural feel.
Score 26/50

Auroshika Frankincense

Natural feel. Soft sandalwood and halmaddi aroma rather than frankincense. Nice enough, but nothing special.
Score 25/50.

Auroshika Rosemary

Synthetic notes of rubber and solvent dominate in a soft and inoffensive manner.
Score: 21/50


 

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

Scents: 8

Highest score: 26

Lowest score: 18

Average: 21

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, this incense is not good quality. The scents are weak, and burn off quickly. I am classing them as perfumed-charcoal as - for me - it doesn't matter if the liquid fragrance is an essential oil or a perfume, it largely behaves the same way when burned, and doesn't have the depth and resonance of dried fragrant ingredients.  I have no interest in burning any more Auroshikha. 

The Best Incense Makers