Experience Design to capture the Intangible Culture of Ittar Making


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Creator/Artist: Annapurna Garimella

Category: Interaction Design

Document: Design Research

Batch: 2021-2023

Source: India,   IDC IIT Bombay

Period:  2019-onwards

Medium: Report pdf

Supervisor: Prof. Ravi Poovaiah


Detailed Description

Nothing brings back a forgotten memory to life like fragrance. And the city of Kannauj proudly claims to be the traditional perfumery capital of India and the largest manufacturer of “Ittar” in the world. This centuries-old art of capturing aromas in bottles is an intangible cultural heritage of Kannauj. With the water of distillation flowing through the gutters of the city and spreading the fragrance all along the streets, the occupation of traditional perfume making can be understood as the true essence and image of Kannauj. However, in recent years, the scent of Ittar is fading away from the city. The industry is diminishing due to unfamiliarity about the value of ‘Ittar’ amongst the populace. The current scenario of the aroma industry and the magnificence of the traditional knowledge system are established through careful and thorough observation, analysis, interviews, and documentation. The project explores a design proposal to capture the plight of craftsmen who make the fragrances through the journey of a flower. To help participants appreciate the “true value” of the Indian fragrance Ittar, an interactive experience is designed to explain the cultural significances and complexities involved in the occupation.