Sandalwood and Mysore

How Mysore sandalwood became famous for soap and oil, why state control and smuggling nearly wiped out sandalwood trees, and the 2022 reforms allowing private cultivation.

Sandalwood is prized for its scent.

Mysore Sandal Soap

The Mysore Sandal Soap factory was set up in 1916 by the Mysore government, and the soap is still made by state-owned KSDL.

State control

For decades, all sandalwood trees, even on private land, belonged to the state.

Smuggling

Veerappan was a notorious sandalwood smuggler until he was killed in 2004.

Decline

Strict control discouraged farmers from growing sandalwood, and supply collapsed.

Reforms

Karnataka eased rules, and in 2022 further allowed private cultivation and sale.

Australia

Australia now grows large sandalwood plantations.

The soap

Mysore Sandal Soap remains a famous brand made with sandalwood oil.

Thinking strict control protected sandalwood

It discouraged growing and fuelled smuggling.

Key takeaways

Mysore Sandal Soap began in 1916.
The state owned all sandalwood trees.
Veerappan smuggled sandalwood.
Reforms now allow private cultivation.