For over 2,000 years, the city of Kannauj in the state of Uttar Pradesh has been the heart of India's perfume industry. It's known for its exquisite attars, or natural perfume oils, made from roses, jasmine and other fragrant flowers.

But today, this centuries-old craft is under threat. Climate change is disrupting weather patterns, damaging crops and putting tens of thousands of livelihoods at risk. Farmers like Mohammad Islam are seeing reduced yields and smaller blooms due to unseasonal rains and heatwaves, while producers struggle with rising costs and shifting fragrance profiles.

Adapting to a changing climate

To survive, Kannauj's perfume makers are being forced to adapt. Scientists at the Fragrance and Flavour Development Centre are testing new crops like basil and chamomile, which are more resilient to heat and increasingly profitable. Farmers are also being advised to shift planting and irrigation schedules to protect delicate flower buds from rising temperatures.

Yet, even with these efforts, the essence of traditional perfumes is changing. As Shakti Vinay Shukla, director of the center, explains, higher temperatures alter the scent of flowers, requiring producers to rethink how they market their products.

Despite the challenges, hope remains. Entrepreneurs like Pravin and Rachna Tandon are diversifying their range to introduce products that require less natural oil, while eighth-generation perfumer Pranav Kapoor sees potential in perfume tourism. By inviting visitors to experience the heritage and craft of Kannauj firsthand, the city could open new revenue streams and preserve its cultural legacy.

As Kapoor put it, tourism could boost local economies and keep the fragrance of Kannauj alive for generations to come. The road ahead may be uncertain, but with innovation and resilience, Kannauj is working to ensure its perfume legacy continues to blossom.