This story is a piece of my soul, filled with love and longing.
Like many of you, the UAE has become my second home, yet my heart still answers the call of my homeland. Even after two decades away, the scent of rain and the warmth of my Umma’s touch pull me back to where my roots are. There’s magic in the flowing beauty of the Nila River and the golden patches of farmland that shine to me from miles away, wrapping my soul in an urge to return—to the home where my mother is.
Every time I cross into her world, I wonder: was it my presence she prayed for during those endless hours of devotion?
Her glowing face answers my questions when I place her favorite Arabian Eagle perfume in her wrinkled hands. That smile, softening her wearied face, takes me back to the days when I was a little boy who once clung to her arms. Although I knew she would have smiled the same, even without the perfumes, just for seeing me.
My journey has been blessed by the love and kindness of many women—mothers and sisters whose generosity knows no bounds. Their compassion reminds me of my mother’s love, from sweet treats and dates to heartfelt prayers. It astonishes me how these women, complete strangers at first, could give so selflessly, nurturing my dreams as if they were their own. Every gesture fills my heart with gratitude and makes me realize that their hearts, rich in love, are more fragrant than any perfume in my store.
Speaking of fragrances, I’ve noticed something special about the perfumes beloved by the older generation of women. The perfumes they love reciprocate the warmth and care they possess inside them! Estee Lauder, Clinique Aromatics Elixir, Quelques Fleurs, Guerlain’s classics, White Diamonds, and Ralph Lauren Safari are among their favorites. Each tells a story, much like the women who wear them.
Take Estee Lauder’s Private Collection, for example. Initially crafted for Mrs. Estee Lauder herself in 1973, this vintage floral quickly found its way into the hearts of many. Its green notes blend with a bouquet of honeysuckle, jasmine, and orange blossom, softened by the beauty of Bulgarian rose and ylang-ylang. Grounded by sandalwood, heliotrope, amber, and musk, it’s a remembered fragrance —just like cherished memories.
Clinique’s Aromatics Elixir, born in 1975 under the brilliance of Bernard Chant, is another gem. With Chypre-floral notes, its bold blend of verbena, sage, and chamomile is hard to resist. The sweetness of jasmine, tuberose, and rose represent elegance, while the Oakmoss and Vetiver lend depth and richness.
And then there’s Quelques Fleurs, a classic since 1913. Created by Robert Bienaimé, its opening citrus notes burst with energy, while a heart of lilac, iris, and jasmine is captivating. Sandalwood, musk, and vanilla in the base give it its luxury fragrance status and elevate its value.
Fragrances are my passion; I’ve learned they hold emotion, memory, and connection. Whether it’s my mother back home or the incredible women who’ve touched my life here, their favorite perfumes carry a part of me. The sweat, effort, and love are present in every bottle.
As life rushes on, I find comfort in knowing that I’ve made these women smile—whether with a bottle of their beloved fragrance or a small gesture of kindness. Those smiles heal me and keep me moving forward.
Today, I’ve shared my heart with you, and I hope the story resonates as deeply with you as it did with me while writing it.
With love and warm hugs to all the incredible mothers out there, Faizal Changampally.
