Bhang in India: A Sacred Sip with a Legal Twist
Ever wondered why people drink bhang during Holi or Maha Shivratri? Or whether it’s actually legal in India? Let’s take a deeper dive into the rich story of bhang — a drink that's part tradition, part medicine, and full of cultural magic.
What Is Bhang?
Bhang is made from the leaves and seeds of the cannabis plant and has been used in India since around 1000 BC. Unlike other forms of cannabis like ganja or charas, bhang is a part of religious rituals and Ayurveda — and yes, it’s still legally consumed in many parts of India.
Bhang and Lord Shiva: A Divine Connection
Bhang is especially tied to Lord Shiva. According to legend, Lord Shiva consumed bhang to stay calm and meditative, which gave it divine status. Even today, people across India drink bhang to honor him during Maha Shivratri. It’s also a festive favorite during Holi, often mixed in drinks and sweets to add an extra kick to the celebration.
Beyond the Buzz: Bhang’s Medicinal Use
Bhang is not just for festivals. In traditional Indian medicine, especially Ayurveda, bhang has been used to treat:
- Fever and sunstroke
- Digestive issues like dysentery
- Stress and anxiety
Its use in Ayurvedic remedies shows how deeply integrated it is in India’s wellness practices.
Is Bhang Legal in India?
Here’s where things get interesting. In 1961, a global agreement called the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs tried to restrict cannabis use worldwide. But India managed to keep bhang out of the ban because it’s made from the leaves (not flowers or resin), which weren’t included in the treaty’s definition of cannabis.
Later in 1985, India passed the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. While it banned forms like ganja (flower) and charas (resin), it did not ban bhang. So legally speaking, bhang is still allowed in most Indian states, and is even sold in licensed government shops.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Drink
Bhang is more than just a festive treat. It’s a symbol of India's ancient traditions, spiritual beliefs, and medical knowledge. Even with changing laws and global conversations around cannabis, bhang remains a culturally protected gem — connecting generations through rituals, remedies, and celebrations.
So the next time you see someone sipping on a bhang thandai, know that it’s not just for fun — it’s a sip of history, tradition, and heali