Anyone who knows me, knows that my perfect evening includes: candles, my cats (Leo & Bagheera) and a good book (usually a fantasy novel – this is what I’m currently reading). The second two items on the list are easily acquired in Bombay (not a spelling error). The third, however, has been more of a challenge since I moved here over 4 years ago.

The perfect candle is equal parts visually appealing and strongly (but not overbearingly, allergy inducing) scented. Having one without the other is a disappointment… and unacceptable. My favourite candle brands in the whole wide world are Diptyque, Byredo and Cire Trudon. Buying these candles in India, however, comes with its own challenges – limited options and exorbitant prices (usually twice the USD value). Which  means, for the last ~4 years I’ve been asking my parents to ship these candles to me from the US — no hefty Indian import duties can come between me and my candle relaxation time. So, I thought that this is the way of the Bombay (candle) world and the only way to pacify my olfactory sense.

And then, Jo Malone opened their first Indian store in Bombay. And within that same week I discovered an the Maroma candle range at Good Earth.

Jo Malone candles stay strong throughout their burn time – Bergamot & Oud is my jam. Can’t say the same for the Good Earth candles but the scent is a-mazing for the first 8 hours so I’ll take it. I tested the Maroma Sandalwood Pillar Candle and I was sold (can the good folks at Auroville do any wrong?). These options are wayy  more affordable than shipping my usual faves so my wallet is definitely happy.

Moral of the story: Yes, the Universe does listen.