As a Pakistani, you’ve probably grown up with the unmistakable, rich scent of bakhoor wafting through homes, mosques, and especially during Ramazan. For centuries, we’ve had this age-old habit of burning bakhoor, whether to enhance the ambiance in our homes, create a serene atmosphere for prayers, or simply keep the house smelling wonderful.

But despite bakhoor’s strong cultural roots, it’s not as common as it used to be, thanks to the modern invasion of room fresheners and sprays.

However, bakhoor isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s making a comeback! You can smell its fragrance in high-end restaurants and even in shopping malls. Yes, bakhoor is becoming popular again because it offers something that no spray or freshener can—depth, warmth, and a fragrance that lingers far longer.

That said, burning bakhoor is an art. And if you want to get the best fragrance out of it, you need to know how to burn it properly. Gladly, this guide will walk you through how to do it right.

What Exactly is Bakhoor?

Before we jump into the how-to, let’s quickly cover what bakhoor actually is for those who may not be familiar. Bakhoor refers to woodchips or shavings that are soaked in perfumed oil and blended with other natural ingredients like resins, amber, musk, sandalwood, and sometimes floral essences. These chips are then burned to release their smoky, aromatic fragrance.

While bakhoor is often associated with the Middle East, it holds a special place in Pakistani homes and mosques, especially during religious gatherings and occasions like Ramazan.

Why Burn Bakhoor?

With all the room fresheners available these days, why go through the hassle of burning bakhoor? The answer is simple: no air freshener can match the depth and warmth of bakhoor. Sure, sprays are quick and easy, but they disappear just as fast. Bakhoor, on the other hand, lingers. Its fragrance seeps into the fabrics of your home and lasts for hours.

Plus, bakhoor is all-natural. Unlike sprays that are full of chemicals, bakhoor gives you a pure, organic scent that’s better for you and your home.

How to Burn Bakhoor the Right Way

Burning bakhoor is pretty simple, but if you want to get the best out of it, follow these easy steps.

1. Choose High-Quality Bakhoor

First things first: make sure you’re using good-quality bakhoor. Not all bakhoor is created equal. The better the quality, the stronger and longer-lasting the fragrance. You can find good-quality bakhoor in Pakistan at stores like Musk Al Mahal, where they offer premium bakhoor at affordable prices.

2. Grab the Right Tools

• A burner (mabkhara): You can go for an electric one or a traditional charcoal burner. Both work, but charcoal gives off a richer, smokier scent.
• Charcoal: If you’re using a traditional burner, you’ll need some natural charcoal discs.
• Tongs: These are important for safely handling the charcoal.

Electric vs. Charcoal Burners
If you're new to bakhoor, an electric burner is the easiest option since it doesn't need an open flame. However, for those who want that classic, deep fragrance, a charcoal burner is the way to go. Charcoal really helps the bakhoor release its full scent and gives a more intense aroma.

3. Light the Charcoal

If you’re using a charcoal burner, light the charcoal with a lighter or match. Use your tongs to hold the charcoal and let it heat up until it turns red and starts ashing over. Once it’s ready, place it in the burner.

Quick Tip: Try Quick-Lighting Charcoal
If you want things to go faster, quick-lighting charcoal discs are super handy. They spark up quickly and are less of a hassle, especially if you're in a hurry.

4. Add the Bakhoor

Now that your charcoal is ready, place a small piece of bakhoor on top of it. Don’t go overboard—a little bakhoor goes a long way. As it starts to smolder, the fragrant smoke will begin to fill the room.

5. Let the Fragrance Spread

Once your bakhoor is burning, let the scent spread through your space. You can move the burner around to help distribute the fragrance, or just leave it in one spot to slowly fill the entire room.

6. Safety First!

• Cleans the air: The smoke from bakhoor naturally purifies the air, removing bad odors and replacing them with its pleasant fragrance.
• Spiritual focus: Many people find that burning bakhoor helps them focus better during prayers, adding a spiritual dimension to their space.
• Relaxation: The calming aroma of bakhoor is perfect for reducing stress and creating a peaceful environment after a long day.

Conclusion