Kewda Water of Ganjam: The traditional floral distillate from the coastal belt Kewda Water of Ganjam, also known as Kewra Jal, is a traditional aromatic distillate from the historic coastal district of Ganjam in the state of Odisha. This centuries-old, sophisticated extraction craft is practiced in the fragrant coastal belt. While the exact origin of this distillation art in Ganjam is not fully documented, it is known to have existed as far back as the royal eras. The art of Kewda distillation dates back several centuries and flourished under royal patronage in Odisha. Skilled traditional artisans of Ganjam developed this unique hydro-distillation technique, passing it down through generations. Over time, due to media coverage and social media, the district became widely recognized as the aromatic hub of Kewda craftsmanship in India. Kewda Water holds a special place in Indian culture and culinary traditions. It is commonly used during festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. The intricate distillation process yields a floral water that symbolizes elegance, purity, and cultural pride. Key Features of Kewda Extraction Made exclusively using the highly fragrant male flowers of the screwpine plant. Intricate and detailed traditional hydro-distillation process. Lightweight and transparent liquid yet possessing a rich, sweet floral aroma. Combination of traditional therapeutic uses and modern culinary applications. Process of making The creation of Kewda Water is time-consuming, requires highly skilled artisans and a lot of patience. Types of products Ganjam Kewda is used to create a wide range of aromatic products Culinary Extracts; Kewda water (Jal) Perfumery; Kewda Attar Essential Oils; Kewda Rooh Importance and benefits Promotes traditional aromatic craftmanship. Provides livelihood to local coastal artisans and farmers. Preserves cultural and aromatic heritage. Attracts trade and supports the local economy. Challenges and limitations It is not only a fragrance or product, it is the culture of Odisha and the story of some great artisans, but due to modernization, changing climate conditions (like cyclones), and synthetic ready-made flavors, this great work and the people who are directly or indirectly associated with it are declining. Following are some of the primary reasons why this work is facing challenges nowadays. Ganjam's Kewda work has received Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognition, highlighting its uniqueness and regional importance. Due to that, many media outlets including social media creators are showing interest in this, and even the youngsters have started learning this skill and making even more unique products with a touch of modernization. Indeed, the Kewda water of Ganjam is more than just a craft, it is a living tradition that reflects the aromatic soul of Odisha. Its delicate fragrance and cultural importance make it a treasure worth preserving for future generations.