February 26, 2014: The Divine Energy (Shakti) principle in the universe is attracted to the fragrance particles in the subtle air generated by the gulal. Also the dormant frequencies enriched with Divine consciousness in the aerial atmosphere become mobile because of the gulal. Thus the worshipper benefits from them. (Divine knowledge received through the medium of Mrs Anjali Gadgil, 27.4.2005, 8.47 p.m.)

When fragrant paste (gandha) is applied to the midbrow region of the Deity in the picture or idol, due to the qualities of the substance from which the paste is made (e.g. sandalwood) and the subtle scent and specific colour of the paste, the Sun channel of the Deity is activated. Consequently the principle of the Deity is attracted to the picture or idol. As a result the picture or idol of the Deity becomes enhanced in Divine consciousness.

Among the various fragrant pastes applied to Deities ashta-gandha and sandalwood paste are the most Sattva predominant.