Ashtagandha is a holy fragrance which used to emanate from the form of Lord of Krishna. This is the fragrance one encounters on a visit to the temple, a fragrance one associates with holiness, purity and positivity. Sandalwood powder or Ashtagandha is integral to rituals and ceremonies, to mark religious utensils, and to decorate the icons of the deities.
In Hinduism and Ayurveda, sandalwood is thought to bring one closer to the divine. Thus, it is one of the most used holy elements in Hindu and Vedic societies.