Candles are one of the basic inventions to get artificial light. It consists of an inner wick which rises from the centre of a column of solid fuel. There are so many different kinds of materials that have been utilized as a fuel, for the production of candle. Paraffin is the mainly common one. There are a number of other materials, which are also used as a fuel, like gel, soy beeswax and several other kinds of materials. The manufacturers of candles are known as chandlers.

Candles have been used for thousands of years. It was developed independently in several countries. It is said that Asian Egyptians were the first ones who used candles. Romans are recognized as the founders of wick candles. Romans used candles in the places of worship at night, lighting homes and aiding travelers in the dark. For many centuries, till the 19th century, the candles were most regularly used in northern Europe. At that time, olive oil lamps were more frequent in southern Europe. It the early 3000BC, beeswax was used to manufacture candles. Then later on, candles were manufactured from a hard fat obtained from bodies of cattle, sheep and horses, called tallow. Tallow produced a smoky flame and acrid odor, when burned. In the Middle Age, beeswax was introduced instead of tallow in candles. Beeswax was a fluid made from honey bees. It was costly, but it did not produce smoky flame or produce acrid odor. After beeswax, several types of wax were introduced for producing candles, but either they were very expensive, or they had repugnant odor. In 1850, paraffin wax was introduced for the manufacturing of candles. It was not expensive and its odor was not abhorrent. Since then, paraffin wax has been used for making candles allover the world.

Before the invention of electricity, the candle was a common source of lighting. It gained popularity since the time it was invented. Though, electricity has fulfilled all the requirements of artificial lighting, but the candles are still being used in many homes. In old times, candles carried much importance in daily life, but now candles are mostly used for special events like birthdays, Christmas and some other celebrations. In many homes, candles are used to obtain light during electric power failure. Due to aesthetic value of candles, these are also considered a best option to acquire a soft, warm and romantic atmosphere. The candles have also been used in the religious ceremonies, and this tradition is still alive in many countries. Buddhists also use candles to become more relaxed while meditating. In Buddhism, candles are placed in front of their Buddhist shrines along with incense and flowers. Candles and flowers are placed before them as a show of admiration and respect. Hindus also use oil candle lamps in their homes. You can also say them clay lamps or diya. It is a basic part of the Hindu community and it is considered a strong and powerful sign of illumination, enlightenment and prosperity.