How we make our Gulab Attar

The Legacy of Gulab Attar

For centuries, Kannauj has been known as the heart of Indian perfumery, and among its many treasures, Gulab Attar (Rose Perfume) holds a special place. Unlike modern perfumes made with alcohol and chemicals, our Indian Rose Attar is crafted through an ancient process, using only Rosa Damascena petals and pure sandalwood oil. This traditional method not only preserves the true essence of roses but also creates a perfume that lasts for years without losing its fragrance.

Handpicking Rosa Damascena Petals

The journey begins at dawn, when the delicate Damask roses (Rosa Damascena) are harvested by hand. At this hour, the roses contain the highest concentration of natural oil. Each petal is carefully collected, ensuring that the fragrance is pure and untouched. This freshness is the secret behind the deep, floral aroma of our Gulab Attar.

Traditional Deg & Bhapka Distillation

The harvested petals are placed in copper vessels called degs, along with clean water. The deg is sealed with clay to prevent any leakage and then gently heated using wood fire. As the water boils, steam rises and carries with it the natural rose oil. This fragrant vapor passes through a bamboo pipe into a receiver vessel, known as the bhapka, filled with sandalwood oil.

Infusion into Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood oil is considered the best carrier oil for natural perfumes, as it captures and preserves the fragrance of roses for decades. Over several hours of slow distillation, the rose essence gradually dissolves into the sandalwood base, creating a rich, long-lasting attar. This process is repeated with fresh batches of petals until the desired concentration of rose fragrance is achieved.

Maturation & Purity

Once the distillation is complete, the attar is allowed to rest and mature. This stage deepens the aroma and balances the natural notes of rose and sandalwood. Unlike synthetic rose perfumes or diluted oils, our attar is 100% pure, natural, and free from alcohol or chemicals. Every drop reflects the artistry of traditional perfumery.

Benefits & Uses of Gulab Attar

• Aromatherapy: Known for its calming effect, rose essence reduces stress and uplifts mood.

• Skin Care: Gentle and soothing, it nourishes sensitive skin.

• Meditation & Spirituality: Used in rituals for its grounding and heart-opening properties.

• Natural Fragrance: A subtle, long-lasting perfume that connects you to nature.

A Heritage of Perfumery

At Hari Bhai Shah, we have preserved this traditional art of attar making for generations. Our Gulab Attar is not just a fragrance but a cultural heritage, carrying the spirit of Kannauj and the timeless beauty of the rose.