Prada has introduced an unusual new fragrance that takes inspiration from one of India’s most beloved drinks: chai. The perfume, named Infusion de Santal Chai, joins the brand’s Les Infusions collection as a unisex scent that blends elements of a chai latte with classic woody and milky accords.
Prada is once again tapping into Indian cultural cues, this time through fragrance. The luxury fashion house has sparked fresh conversation with the launch of a chai-inspired perfume that’s quickly become the talk of the internet. Called Infusion de Santal Chai, the new unisex scent draws from the familiarity of a chai latte, blending warm spices with woody and milky notes as part of Prada’s Les Infusions collection.
The fragrance has combined a chai latte accord reminiscent of the spice and warmth of tea — with creamy sandalwood, bright citrus, cardamom, and soft musks. Launched in early January 2026, the perfume has been positioned as a woody & milky unisex fragrance, suitable for both men and women looking for something unexpected and comforting in their scent wardrobe.
At around $190 (approximately Rs.17,000) for a 100ml bottle, Infusion de Santal Chai sits firmly in Prada’s luxury segment. The bottle design reflects its inspiration too, a rich brown glass container topped with a camel-coloured Saffiano-textured cap that evokes the deep warmth and colour of a freshly brewed cup of chai.
The perfume’s launch has prompted a lively discussion online. Some fragrance lovers are intrigued by the idea of a chai-inspired scent, while others have expressed scepticism about how a familiar beverage could translate into a wearable perfume.
The launch follows Prada’s broader use of cultural cues in its products, coming not long after the brand faced controversy for showcasing sandals resembling traditional Kolhapuri chappals without initially crediting the craft’s heritage makers. Whether Infusion de Santal Chai becomes a new favourite or remains a curiosity, it stands as an example of how luxury brands are experimenting with unexpected cultural inspirations and how that experimentation can spark conversations far beyond the fragrance world.
