Even though a wood with a scientific name Shorea robusta which has origins in India is commonly called as Red Saal in the Indian market, it has no real connections to the “Red Saal” being sold in today’s Bangalore market. The story behind this market evolution is intriguing.
Originally, “Saal” referred to a durable hardwood from Malaysia called Selangan Batu. About 12–15 years ago, this wood was widely imported and highly regarded in India for its strength and density. Over time, however, the cost of Selangan Batu timber rose, making it less competitive with Merbau, or “Honne,” which was also popular in the Indian market.
Originally, “Saal” referred to a durable hardwood from Malaysia called Selangan Batu. About 12–15 years ago, this wood was widely imported and highly regarded in India for its strength and density. Over time, however, the cost of Selangan Batu timber rose, making it less competitive with Merbau, or “Honne,” which was also popular in the Indian market.
To fill the gap, traders sought an affordable alternative and settled on a timber called Red Meranti from Malaysia. Red Meranti was competitively priced and rebranded as “Red Saal” for the Indian market. This wood has two main varieties: Sinker and Floater. The Sinker variety, which sinks in water, is denser and higher in quality, while the lighter Floater variety floats in water and is less expensive. Initially, only the Sinker variety was imported to Bangalore, appealing to quality-conscious buyers. But over time, traders began mixing both varieties, selling a blend as the “Super” variety, and eventually, some sellers began offering only the lighter Floater wood.
Throughout this transition, one characteristic stayed consistent: the pinkish-red color of Red Meranti. Denser wood tends to appear darker, but most buyers didn’t notice subtle differences in color or weight as the changes were introduced gradually.
The story gets more complex as timber from other regions, such as the Solomon Islands, Suriname, or even Indian Mahogany from Kerala, started entering the market under the ‘Red Saal’ label—often just because it was pink.
So, next time you come across “Red Saal” in Bangalore, remember: it’s likely neither the original Indian Red Saal nor genuine Red Meranti. The label may simply be a nod to its color.
Throughout this transition, one characteristic stayed consistent: the pinkish-red color of Red Meranti. Denser wood tends to appear darker, but most buyers didn’t notice subtle differences in color or weight as the changes were introduced gradually.
The story gets more complex as timber from other regions, such as the Solomon Islands, Suriname, or even Indian Mahogany from Kerala, started entering the market under the ‘Red Saal’ label—often just because it was pink.
So, next time you come across “Red Saal” in Bangalore, remember: it’s likely neither the original Indian Red Saal nor genuine Red Meranti. The label may simply be a nod to its color.
