| The burning of Incense stick (Agarbatti) in religious and social functions has been practised in India and many other countries in the world. Incense ( Latin : in cendere, "to burn") is composed of aromatic biotic materials, which release fragrant smoke when burnt. The term incense refers to the substance itself, rather than to the odor it produces. Many religious ceremonies and spiritual purificatory rites employ incense, a practice that persists to this day. The use of incense dates back to biblical times. The Babylonians used incense extensively while offering prayers to divining oracles . In India , some 2000 BC, various writings mention ' perfumers ' and 'incense sellers'. Evidence suggests that such oils were used mainly for their aroma. |