If Karnataka had one smell, it might be mallige. Strung into braids every evening, piled into baskets outside temples, draped over every wedding mantapa. Mysuru mallige is famous across India for a reason.
Why jasmine works in perfume
Jasmine is one of perfumery's great flowers: rich, creamy and a little heady, with a warmth that feels almost skin-like. A little goes a long way. It sits at the heart of a perfume, opening after the bright top notes fade.
Where you'll find it
Yen Maaye Idu carries jasmine in its heart with orange blossom and neroli, over a base of vanilla, amber, musk and benzoin. Soft and luminous, like the first hug in its kathe.
Zabardast pairs jasmine with tonka bean, over sugar, amber, musk and patchouli. Sweet, warm and celebratory, made for festival nights.
Wear it the Karnataka way
Mallige has always been an evening flower. Try a jasmine perfume as the day cools: on the wrists, behind the ears, and a little on your dupatta or collar, where it lingers longest.