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Incense guide

How to Light an Incense Stick Properly

A plain-language answer from the makers of Aadhya incense and dhoop.

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Quick answer

How to Light an Incense Stick Properly

Light the tip of the incense stick from a diya, candle or match, let the flame burn for a few seconds until the tip glows, then gently wave or blow out the flame. The stick should smoulder with a thin ribbon of smoke; place it in a holder at a slight angle or upright over an ash catcher.

Try it with

Common mistakes

  • Blowing the flame out too soon, so the stick stops burning.
  • Lighting from the wrong end: light the coated end, not the bare bamboo handle.
  • Using a holder that is too small to catch ash.
  • Lighting near a fan, which makes the stick burn fast and unevenly.

In puja

In puja, incense is usually lit from the diya after the lamp has been lit, offered to the deity by circling it clockwise, and then placed in its holder.

Step by step

  1. 1Hold the stick by the bare end and bring the coated tip to the flame.
  2. 2Let the tip catch and burn for three to five seconds.
  3. 3Gently wave or blow out the flame.
  4. 4Check that the tip glows and smoke rises.
  5. 5Place the stick in a holder that catches the ash.

Frequently asked questions

Should incense have a flame?

No. After lighting, blow out the flame; incense is meant to smoulder with a glowing tip.

Why is my agarbatti burning too fast?

A draught or fan makes sticks burn faster. Move it to a still corner.

Can I light incense from a diya?

Yes, that is the traditional way in puja.

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