Invisible Hands in the Perfume Capital: A Thematic Analysis of Women’s Labor in Kannauj’s Attar Industry
Jyoti Yadav*1, Kanchan Kushwaha2, Anju Lata3, Nidhi Singh4, Anshu Singh5
1Jyoti Yadav, Research Scholar, Department of Lifelong Learning & Extension, CSJM University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
2Kanchan Kushwaha, Research Scholar, Department of Lifelong Learning & Extension, CSJM University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
3Anju Lata, Research Scholar, Department of Lifelong Learning & Extension, CSJM University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
4Nidhi Singh, Research Scholar, Department of Lifelong Learning & Extension, CSJM University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
5Dr. Anshu Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Lifelong Learning & Extension, CSJM University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Manuscript received on 10 September 2026 | First Revised Manuscript received on 18 September 2026 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 25 September 2026 | Accepted on 15 October 2026 | Manuscript published on 30 October 2026 | PP: 1-8 | Volume-13 Issue-2, October 2026 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijmh.B190713021026 | DOI: 10.35940/ijmh.B1907.13021026
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© The Authors. Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: The traditional art of making perfumes in Kannauj district, Uttar Pradesh, is considered one of India’s oldest and most culturally rich industries. Kannauj attars have survived for many years because of the deg-bhapka distillation process used in attar making. Although many studies have examined the history, economy, and culture of attar making, few have focused on gender differences in the industry’s labour force. This paper examines women’s involvement in attar making, entrepreneurship, and family businesses in Kannauj. The study adopts a qualitative research design through field observations, structured interviews, and participatory interactions with women in attar making. The findings show that although women are actively involved in attarmaking processes in various capacities, including seasonal labour, flower harvesting, and informal activities, they are restricted from participating in formal activities such as decision-making, ownership, and entrepreneurship. Several barriers can be identified in this respect. According to the research, empowering women through education, skills training, entrepreneurial programs, and institutions can play a crucial role in gender equality and a sustainable traditional perfume industry. This article contributes to the literature on gender studies, traditional industry, cultural heritage preservation, and rural entrepreneurship.
Keywords: Attar Industry, Gendered Labour, Women’s Entrepreneurship, Kannauj, Cultural Heritage, Feminist Political Economy.
Scope of the Article: Social Sciences