Mogra, Jasmine and Rajnigandha: India's Night-Blooming Florals
The white flowers that scent Indian summers, temples and weddings — and how they translate into candles.
Avnika Creations द्वारा
Ask anyone who grew up in India what summer evenings smell like, and many will say mogra. White flowers are woven through Indian life: gajras in hair, garlands at temples, petals scattered at weddings. They are also among the most beloved fragrances in perfumery.
Mogra (Arabian jasmine)
Mogra, Jasminum sambac, blooms in the heat and releases its perfume at dusk. Its scent is creamy, green and intensely floral, with a slightly fruity sweetness. In a candle, we pair it with a green top note and soft musk base so it smells like the flower on the vine — our Mogra Courtyard Candle.
Jasmine
Other jasmines are lighter and more airy than mogra, with a honeyed note. Jasmine blends beautifully with neroli and cedar for a fresh, elegant floral like our Jasmine Evening Tin.
Rajnigandha (tuberose)
Rajnigandha — "fragrance of the night" — is the richest of the three: lush, creamy, almost intoxicating. It is the flower of wedding nights and bridal rooms. In candles it needs a light touch, softened with musk or pear blossom, as in our Rajnigandha Night Candle.
Why white florals work so well in candles
White florals have a natural warmth that blooms with heat, so they throw well from a melt pool. They're also familiar and comforting — which makes them excellent gifts for parents, housewarmings and weddings.
Pairing ideas
- Mogra + sandalwood for a puja room.
- Jasmine + citrus for a bright living room.
- Rajnigandha + rose for an anniversary evening.
Explore the full white florals collection.
