DS & Durga

D.S. & DURGA – Poetic Fragrance Art between Music and Literature

Fragrance Compositions as Great Works of Art

The fragrance brand D.S. & Durga stands on equal footing with magnificent music, great literature, and painting. Founded in 2007 by the New York couple Kavi Ahuja Moltz and David Seth Moltz, it remains among the few independent fragrance houses still creatively guided by both designer and perfumer. The brand's name combines David's initials "D.S." with "Durga," the affectionate nickname David gave to his wife Kavi, referencing her Indian heritage and paying tribute to the Hindu goddess Durga.

From Musician to Perfumer – David Seth Moltz

David Seth Moltz, originally a musician from Massachusetts, developed an early fascination for nature, plants, and their aromas. During weekend explorations with Kavi through dusty old bookshops, he discovered rare literature on scents and botanicals. These vintage finds laid the foundation for his profound knowledge as a perfumer. Initially crafting plant extracts into soaps and colognes as gifts for friends, David quickly realized his talent for creating unique fragrances. Inspired by memories like the scent of the ocean in the afternoon, smoky woods in winter, or the lemon soap by the kitchen sink, David began developing eccentric compositions that evolved into luxurious niche perfumes.

Creativity Meets Design – Kavi Ahuja Moltz

The creative soul behind the brand’s visual aesthetics is Kavi Ahuja Moltz. Born in New Jersey, raised primarily in India, and educated in architecture in Los Angeles, Kavi’s olfactory memories are deeply rooted in the lavish floral aromas of her family’s traditions, worn in hair, as necklaces, or tucked beneath pillows. Her profound connection to Indian culture beautifully manifests in both the scents and the brand's minimalist-elegant aesthetic.

From Brooklyn to the World

As DIY pioneers of Brooklyn, David and Kavi transformed personal inspirations into aromatic storytelling: cowboys, the wide-open prairies of the Midwest, and characters from Russian novels and folk songs became the foundation for their creations. Fragrances like Cowboy Grass, Rose Atlantic, and Bowmakers epitomize this poetic vision. After their debut at Barneys New York in 2015, prominent department stores such as Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus soon followed. Today, D.S. & Durga also operates its own boutiques in New York (Nolita & Williamsburg) and Venice Beach, California.

Innovative Olfactory Art and Visionary Storytelling

D.S. & Durga represents visionary fragrance creations, where history, art, and music merge into unforgettable olfactory experiences. Each composition is a symbiosis of craftsmanship, high-quality ingredients, and innovative creativity—created for those who consciously reject conventional fragrance standards, seeking scents that highlight individuality and authenticity.

Acquisition by Manzanita Capital

In 2024, British investment firm Manzanita Capital, owner of renowned luxury brands such as Diptyque and MALIN+GOETZ, acquired D.S. & Durga. This acquisition underscores the brand’s growing influence and prominent status within the niche fragrance world.

Iconic Fragrances by D.S. & Durga

Discover unique fragrances such as Debaser, inspired by the Pixies song of the same name, featuring seductive fig and creamy coconut milk, or Burning Barbershop, a smoky composition evocative of an 1891 barbershop fire. Each scent tells its own compelling story, captivating the senses with character and individuality.

Authentic. Creative. Unmistakable.

Experience the extraordinary niche perfumes by D.S. & Durga now at scent amor, your specialist for luxurious handcrafted fragrances. Immerse yourself in a world of olfactory storytelling and discover your personal signature scent!

Copyright by scent amor © 2025 (grw)