BHUBANESWAR: Candles have been in use for thousands of years and up until the early 1900s they were the sole source of synthetic light. Candles are also used for customs in religious services in many faiths since time immemorial. However, the importance of candles has diminished in the last century due to the invention of various electrical appliances. Despite its subdued value, it is still used for its aesthetic value in birthday parties, marriages, home decor and important dinners among others.
The presence of a designer candle enhances the aura of interiors on the occasion of a social gathering. Candles have a lot of variations. Some candles are perfumed whereas others are not. Trendy designs and flavoured fragrance combine to augment the importance of such candles for various purposes. Be it a candlelight dinner or birthday party, such occasions seem rather incomplete without a candle. Orissa Post interacted with some candle makers as well as buyers to delve deeper into the subject.
Anita Pradhan, a city based candle maker, said, “In a celebratory party for any purpose, one should procure Pillar Candles and gift it to one’s well wishers. These candles are made with unique designs to suit home decor of any kind. They provide an added charm to the living room too. In fact, the candles can also be used for specific occasions. Due to the use massive and high-quality material, the candles burn for a long time without causing too much smoke.”
Sushmita Bagchi, an engineering student who runs a Do-it-yourself (DIY) class in her leisure time, said, “Scented candles are much in demand due to their aesthetic value. They are available in glass containers to keep the fragrance intact. Scented candles come in various fragrances like jasmine, cinnamon, sandalwood, spices and floral scents among others. One should buy them according to the mood and occasion.”
Smita Bagdutta, a spa owner, said, “My wellness spa centre at Khandagiri here is hugely popular. This is because I use a lot of candels in the rooms where I conduct my spa sessions. My clients love it when I fill the place with scented candles that not only soothes their mood, but also makes the spa look inviting.” Various types of candles are available in the market. Candles are either created to be free standing or to be filled in a vessel.
BOX
Candle spread
CONTAINER
A candle that is created from wax poured into a special glass, tan, and/or pottery. Container candles can be used as decorative items and are typically highly fragranced.
VOTIVE
Free standing candles that were originally produced as white and unscented and are typically lit for devotion or gratitude in religious ceremonies. Today the votive candles are available in a wide array of colour and fragrances. Votive candles should be made to burn in an appropriate holder.
PILLAR
A rigid, free standing candle that is available in a wide variety of shapes and designs.
TAPER
A very slender candle that can range in height from 6” up to 20” and are used in an appropriate holder.
LED
One may opt for LED candles that are battery operated. These are smokeless with a high aesthetic value. With the option of operating these with a remote, its usage is highly convenient as well.
Chaitali Shome,OP