In millions of Indian homes, lighting an agarbathi is more than a ritual—it is a moment of peace, belief, and continuity. Among the many incense brands in India, Cycle Pure Agarbathies holds a special place. Its story is not just about business growth, but about values, consistency, and faith-driven entrepreneurship.
This is the journey of how a small incense-making venture from Mysuru became one of India’s most trusted spiritual brands.

Where It All Began: A Post-Independence Dream
Cycle Pure Agarbathies traces its roots back to 1948, just a year after India gained independence. The country was rebuilding, resources were limited, and markets were uncertain. It was during this time that N. Ranga Rao started an incense business in Mysuru with a simple belief—quality and purity would always find buyers.
Incense, for him, was not just a consumable product. It was deeply tied to Indian households, daily prayers, and spiritual discipline. This belief shaped every decision that followed.
The name “Cycle” was symbolic. A cycle represents continuity, balance, and movement—values closely associated with life and spirituality in Indian culture.
Winning Trust One Agarbathi at a Time
In the early years, Cycle agarbathies were produced in small quantities with intense focus on fragrance consistency. There was no heavy advertising or aggressive expansion. Growth was slow but steady, powered entirely by word-of-mouth.
What made Cycle stand out early on was:
- Consistent fragrance quality
- Strict quality control
- Respect for religious and cultural sentiment
- No compromise on raw materials
Customers noticed that every pack delivered the same experience. This reliability helped Cycle become a preferred choice in homes and temples across Karnataka and later South India.
The Meaning Behind “Pure”
As competition increased, the brand took a defining step by positioning itself as Cycle Pure Agarbathies. The word Pure was not added for marketing appeal—it was a promise.
It stood for:
- Authentic ingredients
- Ethical manufacturing
- Spiritual integrity
- Unwavering quality standards
In a price-sensitive market, Cycle chose trust over shortcuts. This decision helped the brand stand apart as a premium yet dependable option.
Scaling Without Losing the Soul
By the 1980s and 1990s, Cycle Pure Agarbathies expanded across India. Manufacturing capabilities were modernised, distribution networks strengthened, and new fragrances introduced. Despite scale, the company remained cautious about dilution.
Key expansion principles included:
- In-house fragrance development
- Controlled product launches
- Strong distributor relationships
- Uniform branding and packaging
Unlike many FMCG brands, Cycle avoided chasing short-term trends. Every new product had to align with the brand’s spiritual core.
A People-First Business Model
One of the most underrated aspects of Cycle’s success is its focus on people. The company employed thousands of workers, many of them women, and invested in stable employment and fair working conditions.
This approach ensured:
- Low employee turnover
- Consistent product craftsmanship
- Community goodwill
- Long-term operational stability
The result was a workforce that treated the brand as their own.
Beyond Agarbathies: Thoughtful Diversification
Over time, Cycle Pure expanded into related spiritual and wellness categories such as:
- Dhoop and sambrani
- Pooja oils
- Air care and devotional products
Each extension was deliberate. The brand avoided unrelated diversification, ensuring that customers always associated Cycle with purity and devotion.
Why Cycle Pure Still Matters Today
Even after decades, Cycle Pure Agarbathies remains relevant because it never lost sight of its foundation. Its communication focuses on devotion, family rituals, and quiet moments of prayer—not noise or hype.
Today, Cycle Pure is:
- A market leader in agarbathies
- A household name across India
- Exported to multiple countries
- Still rooted in its founding values
Its success proves that brands built on trust and consistency can outlast trends and competition.
FAQs
1. Who founded Cycle Pure Agarbathies?
Cycle Pure Agarbathies was founded by N. Ranga Rao in 1948 in Mysuru.
2. Why is the brand called “Cycle”?
The cycle symbolises continuity, balance, and the eternal nature of life, aligning with spiritual values.
3. What makes Cycle Pure Agarbathies different from other brands?
Its focus on purity, consistent fragrance quality, and respect for religious sentiment sets it apart.
4. Is Cycle Pure Agarbathies an Indian company?
Yes, it is an Indian-origin company that has grown into a global brand.
5. Does Cycle Pure only sell agarbathies?
No, it has expanded into dhoop, sambrani, pooja products, and wellness-related offerings.
