Mysuru
Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), a state government undertaking renowned for manufacturing high-quality products for decades, is all set to unveil what could be one of the most expensive beauty products ever released in the Indian market— a pure Mysore jasmine (Mysore Mallige) perfume, priced at a staggering Rs 2.6 lakh per litre.
You may say “Oops!”—but yes, it's true. This premium perfume, extracted from the famed Mysore Mallige, could become a benchmark product for luxury and exclusivity. “If everything goes well, we are planning to launch this product during the Dasara festival, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah inaugurating it,” said C.S. Nadgouda, Chairman, KSDL, while speaking to City Hilights.
According to him, the perfume has undergone extensive testing in laboratories for various quality parameters and is currently undergoing dermatological testing. Once all testing is complete, the product will be introduced to the market, targeting the rich, elite, and international clientele willing to pay for quality and exclusivity.
"One may ask why it is so expensive. Here's the answer," explained Nadgouda. "Unlike sandalwood, Mysore jasmine undergoes a complex distillation process. From 100 kg of Mysore jasmine, only 50–60 grams of essential oil is extracted. Imagine the quantity of flowers required to make just one litre of perfume."
Surprisingly, this meticulous process is currently carried out by just one person in Hunsur taluk of Mysuru district. KSDL is collaborating with this expert for the production of the perfume.
When pointed out that the GI-tagged Mysore Mallige is rarely cultivated in the Mysuru region, Nadgouda expressed optimism that the new product's demand will encourage local farmers to grow the jasmine, thereby improving their livelihoods and ensuring a smooth supply chain.
“The aroma of Mysore jasmine is unmatchable and cannot be compared to jasmine grown in other states. That’s why KSDL wants to promote this rare and luxurious perfume in alignment with Karnataka's rich cultural heritage,” he added.
KSDL is working round-the-clock to complete the remaining testing phases and is determined to launch the product during the Mysuru Dasara festival, a time when lakhs of people visit the cultural capital of Karnataka.
What’s next? Nadgouda revealed that KSDL is also planning to launch Kevda perfume and explore more rare and exotic fragrances. In addition, the company has plans to diversify into facial creams, face packs, body lotions, high-end soaps, and sun-tanning creams, among other beauty and wellness products.
Diversification and innovation seem to be the way forward for KSDL as it aims to blend tradition with luxury, catering to both local and global markets.
