Incense is an aromatic substance, which is obtained from certain resinous trees. It releases fragrant smoke when burned and is largely used for the purpose of religious worship. Indeed incense has been used for centuries in religious ceremonies and spiritual purification rites, a practice that persists to this day.

Thousands of people raced to offer the first incense stick at some of the nation’s largest temples early yesterday morning to pray for good fortune and prosperity in the Year of the Tiger.