Banjara Ritual Resin On Stick Copal

 

Despite appearances this is not a South American resin-on-a-stick (ROAS) incense, it's made in Bangalore, India by R M Enterprises who trade under the name Banjara. ROAS incense is trending heavily across South America,  gaining traction in North America, and is spreading across the globe. New companies in India, Germany, and Yemen are picking up on the style and running with it. 

Copal incense is strongly associated with South American tribes and indigenous culture.  It's not often I come upon it in incense made in other countries; unless, as here, there is a deliberate attempt to invoke a South American ambiance.  Copal is sometimes regarded as being close to frankincense, and is sometimes referred to as the "Mexican frankincense". I find it sweeter, fruitier, more pleasant and appealing, but with less depth, complexity, and resonance. I wouldn't say I prefer one over the other - it depends on mood and situation. 

This has a beautiful scent on the stick - resinous, herby, woody,  and certainly sweet and fruity. The scent on the burn follows that of the scent on the stick, though is brighter and sharper and more resinous with a pleasing amount of fresh acidity. I feel that these Banjara resin-sticks have been successful. I'm a little uncomfortable with the leaning on South American culture in the promotion of the sticks, but the sticks themselves have been very enjoyable and satisfying.  The UK wholesalers Ancient Wisdom distribute them in the UK, so Banjara sticks are available all over the UK for around £3 a pack of 8 from: eBay;  MysticMoon, Amazon, Shiva, etc and also in North America - SoapOpera, South America - Samana,  Australia - Herb Temple, and other countries. It's a good price for decent incense in a style that is trending and exciting. 

Date: April 2025   Score:  36

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Banjara Incense