2026.03.31 2026.04.11

MEKHA ARANYA (Siam 1928) | Review & Impression

Perfume Geek K

MEKHA ARANYA

SIAM 1928

NUTT WESSHASARTAR

2024

THAILAND

Aldehyde

Osmanthus Absolute Honey

Leather Musk Sandalwood

CONCEPT

“Mhom, Mom” is a distinctive mythical creature, resembling a fusion of various animals. In some regions, Mhom may have a face resembling a mix of a cat and a lion or a dog with a gazelle-like appearance. Some variations may include a tail similar to a dolphin but with legs. While the features are not clearly defined, it can be summarized that Mhom is an imaginative creature blending characteristics from various animals, typically depicted with four legs. It is believed to have been influenced by Chinese art before merging with Thai local art.

Mhom is often depicted in the form of sculptures adorning the staircases of temples in the northern regions of Thailand and Lanna art (ancient kingdom in northern Thailand). Additionally, Mhom tattoos can be found on some elderly individuals in the northern and northeastern regions. The belief is that Mhom possesses great strength and power, descending to combat evil or impending threats.

In Thai northern folklore, Mhom first appears in legends related to rain-seeking rituals, serving as the vehicle for the rain deity, “Patchunna, the deity.” According to ancient scriptures, Mhom once descended to the human realm, indulging in power and might. Unable to ascend back to heaven, Mhom was instructed to guard Buddhist temples and listen to the teachings until achieving redemption and earning the ability to fly back to heaven.

From the legend of Mhom, inspiration emerged to create the fragrance “Mekha Aranya,” meaning the Cloud Forest, symbolizing Mhom’s return to heaven. The main scent of Mekha Aranya is Osmanthus Absolute, representing the fusion of Thai-Chinese art. Aldehyde and Musk complement the fragrance, evoking the image of clouds in the sky, the heavenly abode of Mhoms. A touch of warmth is added with Honey and Sandalwood, enhanced by Leather under scent in Osmanthus Absolute adds a mysterious and alluring depth to the fragrance.

Overall, “Mekha Aranya” is a floral fragrance, belonging to the Soliflore category, capturing the essence of Osmanthus Absolute as a representation of Mhom returning to the heavenly realm in the most beautiful way possible.
Siam 1928 Official Website: https://siam1928.com/product/siam1928-mekha-aranya-ceramic-bottle/

THOUGHTS

The opening reveals a soft, powdery note reminiscent of vintage face powder, evoking the celestial clouds where Mhom, a mythical creature from Thai legend, is said to reside. This delicate powdery accord feels airy and ethereal, as if floating above the earth. The scent carries a nostalgic character, reminiscent of the slightly old-fashioned cosmetic fragrances once popular in East Asia, particularly in China and Japan. It feels gentle, refined, and quietly elegant, setting a serene and dreamlike tone from the very beginning.

After some time, the scent of osmanthus begins to emerge. As a Japanese person, the fragrance of osmanthus is deeply familiar to me, as it is often used in shampoos and seasonal products. Because of this, I sometimes detect a subtle shampoo-like nuance in the fragrance. However, rather than feeling artificial, this impression enhances the naturalness of the composition. The osmanthus here is beautifully restrained, with a soft, slightly fruity character that feels authentic and delicate.

Gradually, a warm touch of honey blends into the osmanthus, adding gentle sweetness and depth. The fragrance becomes softly fruity, floral, and subtly sweet, faithfully recreating the natural scent of blooming osmanthus. On my skin, a leather note also becomes clearly noticeable. This leather adds structure and sophistication, preventing the fragrance from becoming overly sweet or purely floral. The result is beautifully balanced — fruity and floral, yet refined and grounded by the leather.

At first glance, the note composition may seem simple, but it is thoughtfully constructed to avoid becoming a flat or monotonous osmanthus fragrance. Each element plays a careful role, creating a fragrance that evolves gently and maintains interest throughout its wear. The balance between softness and depth feels particularly well-crafted.

Do you enjoy osmanthus fragrances? If so, MEKHA ARANYA is certainly worth trying. With its apricot-like fruity osmanthus and elegant balance, it stands as one of my favorite fragrances from Siam 1928 — refined, natural, and quietly captivating.