Startup Originals Team
What began in 1948 with just ₹500 and a dream has today become a ₹1,700-crore global fragrance empire. Cycle Pure Agarbathies, founded by N. Ranga Rao in Mysuru, stands as the world’s largest incense manufacturer, selling 12 billion incense sticks annually and exporting to more than 75 countries. This is the remarkable story of how faith, purpose and innovation turned a humble home-based venture into a global household name.
A Humble Beginning Rooted in Purpose:
In post-Independence India, opportunities were scarce and resources even scarcer. Yet, a determined young man named N. Ranga Rao pawned his grandmother’s jewellery to raise ₹500, setting out to build something meaningful. His mission was not merely to sell incense; he wanted to create an ethical business that spread positivity, devotion and purity.
With this vision, he founded Mysuru Products and General Trading Company, the seed that would one day grow into Cycle Pure Agarbathies.
Building a Brand That Spoke to India’s Soul:
Ranga Rao’s approach was ahead of its time. He introduced tin and cardboard packaging, ensuring freshness long before packaging innovation became mainstream.
He also established in-house fragrance labs, blending scents deeply rooted in India’s cultural and spiritual traditions. These fragrances resonated with millions, helping Cycle evolve from a small brand to a symbol of authenticity, purity and trust.
Soon, the iconic Cycle logo became synonymous with devotion in Indian households.
The Rise of a Global Fragrance Empire:
Decades later, Cycle Pure Agarbathies stands as the world’s largest incense manufacturer, a feat few traditional Indian brands have achieved.
Today, Cycle:
- Sells 12 billion incense sticks every year
- Operates in over 75 countries
- Holds a major share in India’s ₹6,000-crore incense market
- Runs a powerful distribution network with 40 depots, 5,000 distributors, and 8 lakh retail outlets
The company’s reach extends from small temple towns in India to global markets across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas.
Innovation and Diversification Under the Next Generation:
With the leadership of Arjun Ranga, the founder’s grandson, NR Group expanded beyond incense into a diversified fragrance portfolio.
Some of its major verticals include:
- Ripple Fragrances – home and air-care products
- Lia – room and car fresheners
- Iris Home Fragrances – premium lifestyle fragrances
- Pure Prayer App – a digital devotional platform to book pujas and watch temple rituals online
This blend of tradition and technology helped the company stay relevant across generations.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Social Impact:
Cycle Pure is among the first carbon-neutral incense manufacturers in the world. The company uses:
- Responsibly sourced materials
- FSC-certified packaging
- Recycled temple flower waste to produce incense
In addition, 70% of its workforce consists of rural women, many of whom are empowered to work from home. This model supports livelihoods while preserving traditional skills.
A Legacy Built on Values, Not Just Business:
Despite competition and market changes, Cycle Pure Agarbathies continues to lead with its core values, quality, purity, and positivity.
From a modest Mysuru home to a global empire touching millions of lives, the brand’s journey is proof that devotion, hard work and purpose-driven leadership can create legacies that span generations.
Cycle Pure isn’t just a company.
It’s a fragrance of hope, faith and tradition, spreading across the world.
