A growing interest in niche and artisanal scents is inspiring homeowners to create a distinctive fragrance identity for their spaces
What’s changing is how consumers are elevating that same instinct with more refined formats — sculptural candles, ceramic diffusers — without losing the warmth of tradition,” says Priya Bhagi, Fine Fragrance Head at MANE. Live perfume bar: Offer guests a bespoke fragrance as a personalised keepsake. ( as suggested by Priya Bhagi, Rishi Chhabria and Husain Sabu ) Muriel Ughetto’s fragrance collection offers varied scent profiles, from the woody warmth of Opale to the fresh citrus and floral notes of Améthyste,” says Neha Kataria (L); Home fragrances are becoming a reflection of personal taste, chosen to shape the mood and atmosphere of each space (C); and Presented in the iconic Louxor Votive, this Baccarat scented candle combines an exquisite fragrance with the artistry of crystal craftsmanship (R) In refined interiors, home fragrance is becoming as much a design element as a sensory experience. Neha Kataria, interior designer and creative director at The Right Address, says, “Muriel Ughetto’s Scented Rolling Stones are an interesting example. Neha says, “People are creating a progression of fragrances that gives each room its own identity while maintaining continuity. Alexandrine Reille-Linyer, export director of Baccarat, says, “Our scented candle, presented in the iconic Louxor Votive, brings together fragrance and crystal craftsmanship. Similarly, oud and amber can introduce warmth, depth and richness without overwhelming a space,” he says. These notes create a cosy atmosphere, and add freshness,” she says. Recalling a recent celebration, Piyush Jhunjhunwala, founder of a wealth-management platform, says, “At our Diwali event, we focused on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere through natural aromas, floral arrangements and festive décor. “There is a growing appreciation for how our homes can bring people together and create meaningful experiences,” says Arushi, adding, “Games encourage conversation and togetherness, while fragrance shapes the atmosphere and makes a space feel personal. The aim is to create a welcoming, thoughtfully considered atmosphere where guests can relax, connect and enjoy each other’s company” – Arushi Agarwal, founder of a home fragrance brand Diyas + scented candles together: Pair traditional clay diyas with a sculptural scented candle on the entrance console — gives the “elevated Indian home” look that’s trending, without losing the ritual of lighting diyas Reed diffusers in brass or ceramic vessels pair beautifully with traditional marigold-and-brass table themes Candles and decorative holders are ideal centerpieces for the Diwali dining table; aesthetic even unlit Thali and gifting boxes: For hosts assembling Diwali gift hampers/mithai boxes, a scented candle or a mini diffuser with chocolate or saffron notes can elevate the gifting experience Flameless options for safety: With diyas, candles and fairy lights extensively used for Diwali interiors, flameless diffusers (ceramic or stone-based) are a practical safety tip, especially in homes with children Post-festival reset : Tulsi, green tea, chamomile and bergamot scents provide a calming reset and detox effect once the celebrations wind down (as suggested by Priya Bhagi) You use AI every day.
As Diwali brings festive gatherings and entertaining, home fragrance is becoming essential for setting the mood. Alongside fine tableware, floral arrangements and curated décor, homeowners are exploring niche perfumery, distinctive scent compositions and sculptural fragrance objects to create a welcoming atmosphere. Moving beyond conventional room fresheners, the focus is on layering fragrances that reflect personal taste while adding a sensory dimension to celebrations. “In Indian homes, fragrance has always been part of festive ritual — from incense in the pooja room to ittar on festive days. Entrance: Welcome guests with bergamot, orange blossom, mogra or white musk, layered with hints of spice. Living room: Create warmth with amber, sandalwood, vanilla, saffron or oud. Dining area: Opt for understated citrus and light florals that complement the menu. Bedrooms: Choose soothing notes of iris, neroli, musk or sandalwood. Outdoor spaces: Explore fresh woods and vetiver to complement the glow of diyas. The choice of vessel, material, finish and craftsmanship can turn fragrance objects into decorative accents that complement art, fine tableware, and curated décor. Arranged in a tinted beechwood dish, semi-precious stones, lava stones and brass details become a decorative composition that also releases fragrance. Scented candles and diffusers can similarly sit alongside flowers and tableware, complementing a festive tablescape without competing with it. Rishi Chhabria, fragrance architect and founder of Aerome, adds, “Consumers are moving beyond room fresheners, recognising fragrance as a luxury in its own right. The way a home smells is becoming as important as its architecture and interiors. “A celebratory fragrance need not be intense or sweet. Woody notes, soft musk and delicate florals add warmth without overwhelming a space, while citrus and neroli bring freshness. Layering allows the fragrance to evolve naturally, with expressive notes in the entrance and softer scents in private spaces” – Neha Kataria, interior designer and creative director Home fragrance is moving beyond its functional role to become an expression of personal taste and considered living. Discerning homeowners are exploring niche compositions and layering scents to give each room a distinct identity while maintaining continuity. There is also a growing appreciation for fragrance objects that combine sensory appeal with design, from scented candles and diffusers to Scented Rolling Stones. ” This blend of perfumery and craftsmanship is evident in Baccarat’s creations. The creation contributes to a home’s atmosphere while serving as a decorative accent. “The shift towards more nuanced compositions is gaining ground. Globally, home fragrance is evolving along the same lines as fine perfumery, embracing smoky woods, resins and darker florals rather than one-dimensional scents” – Priya Bhagi, a fragrance expert Diwali’s fragrance palette draws on familiar aromas of fresh flowers, sandalwood, incense, and festive sweets. Chhabria notes that jasmine, rose, white florals and saffron remain popular, finding new expression in nuanced compositions. “Jasmine, for instance, doesn’t always have to smell like traditional mogra. Paired with soft musk or fresh citrus notes, it can feel modern and understated. For intimate game nights, Arushi Agarwal, founder of Seva Home, recommends layering amber, musk and vetiver with gentle citrus or earthy woody notes. “A Diwali games evening is about bringing people together. Reed diffusers: Choose refined compositions and sculptural vessels for a subtle, continuous fragrance. Scented candles: Opt for sophisticated notes and statement holders to create warmth during festive gatherings. Incense: Explore sandalwood, saffron and resin-based blends for traditional rituals. Layering scents: Combine complementary notes to create a cohesive fragrance experience across different spaces. (as suggested by Arushi Agarwal) “Scented candles can be used throughout the home to create a welcoming and elegant ambience, setting the mood from the moment guests arrive through every stage of the gathering. Combined with the warm glow of crystal, they help create an environment that feels inviting, refined and memorable” – Alexandrine Reille-Linyer, export director When thoughtfully coordinated with flowers, lighting, and décor, fragrance can shape the ambience of a Diwali gathering. Abundant flowers added freshness, complemented by the aroma of traditional sweets. Soft lighting and festive accents brought the spirit of Diwali to life. Event planner Husain Sabu recommends choosing scents that complement the setting. “For traditional marigold and mogra arrangements, I opt for soft notes of jasmine, sandalwood and rose. For contemporary settings with gold accents and candlelight, I prefer richer compositions of amber, oud and warm woods. From Mahjong sets to playing cards, games-inspired fragrance collections are becoming part of luxury home entertaining, creating opportunities to bring people together through thoughtfully curated experiences. Fragrance can complement these moments by setting the mood and adding a sensory dimension to gatherings. “A softly scented candle placed away from the games table or a reed diffuser in an adjoining area can be enough to set the mood. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test Get the latest Lifestyle News and more. Download the TOI app.
