If there is one thing common in Pakistan, it is catching the beautiful scents of men scurrying around grocery stores and well, pretty much everywhere. Every individual has a duty to keep her/himself clean and fragrant. If we do not stay hygienic from the inside, how does one suppose we can keep cleanliness in other things? It is indeed our moral and social obligation to keep ourselves germ-free, odour free, and dirt free. Now, I am not discriminating against the sacred male gender. Females aren’t far behind either, but I believe it is mostly men that take it for granted. There is a false perception amongst men about “mardaangi”; they brush off things by telling themselves that self-hygiene might not be manly enough, or it doesn’t make them seem rather macho. However, men, there is a fine line between looking rough and just stinking right THROUGH our nose. Sure… tall, dark, and strong men are considered to be more handsome, but take it from the ladies: No one can beat a “saaf suthra khushboo dar aadmi.” I mean, have you not seen girls running after guys in body spray ads? There is a reason they do that. Spread awareness, indulge in cleanliness, feel fresh, be happy and cheerful We are living in a country with extreme climates. Whenever we find ourselves buying one of the best items to eat, we sure can invest in some cleaning agents too: 1. Taking a proper shower from head to toe is a must, without any question. Invest in a fragrant shower gel (it will last very long), personal loofah, foot scrub, soda bicarb, and of course, deodorants! 2. Foot odours are very common in men. There are a wide range of products available to treat this epidemic in the market; one just needs to simply spray after drying their feet and before putting on their socks and shoes. 3. Oral hygiene is also one of the biggest factors causing major health issues. I am still in a habit of cleaning teeth at least twice a day. Do try to encourage dental flossing and a quick fix (after eating raw onions, smoking etc) with a good strong mouthwash. As one reaches the adolescent age, it is very natural for the human body to produce sweat in axillary areas. But let’s take major note of the fact that you were not born to be a porcupine or a skunk that has to send its predators away. Spread awareness, indulge in cleanliness, feel fresh, be happy and cheerful. A good perfume is also a must have to drive someone crazy. Published in Daily Times, March 27th 2018.