Samrath Bedi Understands The Power Of Smelling Good
Forest Essentials' Executive Director gets talking about the brand's new cologne, his idea of luxury and the key steps every man must include in his grooming routine
Smell is serious business.
From the time you open your eyes in the morning to the moment you close them to sleep, smell is your only constant sensation. The food you eat. A random stranger across the road. Rain pouring down. Incessant traffic. And you, going about your life amidst it all. Everything has a smell. You can’t ignore it. Even if it’s not a pleasant one. Especially when it’s not. There are smells we enjoy, but also those we endure. You can’t control smell. It overpowers as only it can.
What you can do is change yourself. The scent you exude. Keep it fresh. Let it walk into a room before you do. Make sure people pause and look. Take a note. Of the notes in your cologne. We are what we smell like, after all.
There are few men who know more about scent than Samrath Bedi, Executive Director, Forest Essentials. The brand is known for products that work, and also smell incredible, after all. We sat down with him to talk about their new cologne, grooming essentials and the power of smelling good.
Talk to us about Forest Essentials' new cologne - Musk, Lime & Patchouli.
Our new cologne, Musk, Lime & Patchouli, blends the richness of patchouli with the freshness of lime and the sensual warmth of musk. What sets it apart is the balance it strikes between freshness and depth. It’s not just about a zesty kick; it has earthy, woody notes that make it grounding and versatile. Whether it's day or night, it’s a fragrance that speaks to your connection with nature, something we’re all about at Forest Essentials.
Where would you wear this cologne? And how would you like men to wear it?
This is a go-to cologne for just about any occasion, whether it's a day at work, a casual hangout, or dinner. It’s all about confidence. The scent should complement you, not overpower, leaving a lasting impression that’s uniquely yours. It’s the perfect balance of subtle and bold, so wear it how you want it to feel: fresh but grounded.
How we smell is such a potent marker of who we are as people. Are there any tips you'd like to share for men when choosing a scent or cologne?
Choosing a scent is personal. Think about the vibe you want to project. For a light, refreshing energy, go for citrus notes. If you want something deeper, earthy, and grounded, opt for fragrances with patchouli, sandalwood, or vetiver. But the key is to choose something that feels authentic to you. Your scent should be an extension of who you are, not just an afterthought.
Using a cologne is an integral part of men's grooming. What are some other key steps that you'd suggest men never miss?
A solid skincare routine is essential. A good cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen are basics you can’t skip. Consistency is everything, taking the time to care for your skin and hair will make a noticeable difference. Also, a quality shave or beard care routine goes a long way. Grooming isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good too.
Forest Essentials has long been championing luxury ayurveda. What does luxury mean to you personally?
To me, luxury is about quality, authenticity, and attention to detail. It’s not about excess or extravagance, but rather about feeling truly cared for. At Forest Essentials, we bring together ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and modern sensibilities to create luxury that nurtures both the body and mind. It’s the little things that make luxury special, the thought and care that go into every product.
The men's grooming market is booming across the world. Are there any grooming trends you feel that are going to be big in the coming months?
Men are increasingly looking for holistic grooming approaches. Natural ingredients and personalized skincare are definitely on the rise. There’s also a big shift towards sustainability, with more men seeking eco-friendly, cruelty-free products. I think multifunctional products will become more popular as well, grooming that’s quick, easy, and effective.
If you had to recommend one specific grooming product for men from the Forest Essentials' catalogue, which one would it be and why?
I’d recommend our Grooming Beard Oil. It’s packed with natural extracts like Turmeric and oils such as Pomegranate Seed, Sweet Almond, Olive, and Sesame, making it perfect for nourishing and strengthening the beard. It helps with healthy growth, making the beard softer, fuller, and well-conditioned, ideal for men who want an effortless yet effective grooming routine.