Despite its long-standing religious and medicinal importance in India, cannabis continues to face societal vilification and legal restrictions. This paradox calls for a reevaluation of the herb’s cultural heritage and its misunderstood legacy.
A Sacred History
Cannabis, known as bhang, ganja, or charas in different parts of India, holds a significant place in Indian spiritual and cultural practices. The herb has long been associated with Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Stories and scriptures often depict Shiva as consuming cannabis, symbolizing his role as the destroyer of ego and a guide to transcendence.
During festivals like Shivaratri and Holi, bhang—a drink made from cannabis leaves mixed with milk, spices, and sugar—has been traditionally consumed as a sacred offering. It is considered a medium to achieve spiritual connection, relaxation, and communal bonding.
Cannabis in Indian Medicine
The medicinal properties of cannabis are well-documented in Ayurveda, where it is referred to as vijaya (victory). Ancient texts detail its use in treating ailments like pain, insomnia, digestive issues, and mental stress. Despite the global resurgence of cannabis as a therapeutic agent, India remains cautious, largely due to the stigma attached to the herb.
The NDPS Act and its Impact
The 1985 Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act categorized cannabis alongside heroin, cocaine, and LSD, branding it as illicit. While the law targeted narcotics trafficking, its blanket criminalization of cannabis overlooked its cultural and medicinal significance.
This legal stance created a disconnect between India’s heritage and its present-day policies, stifling open discourse on the herb’s regulated use.
Cultural Portrayal: From Songs to Cinema
Indian cinema and popular culture have long reflected society’s complex relationship with cannabis. Songs like “Jai Jai Shiv Shankar” from the film Aap Ki Kasam celebrate the herb’s spiritual symbolism, intertwining romance, devotion, and cultural acceptance. Yet, mainstream narratives often paint cannabis as a vice, perpetuating negative stereotypes.
Global Shifts: Learning from Others
Countries like Canada, Uruguay, and parts of the U.S. have decriminalized or legalized cannabis, recognizing its economic and therapeutic potential. Closer to home, Thailand recently decriminalized cannabis for medicinal purposes.
India, with its rich cultural history of cannabis use, has the opportunity to craft a balanced policy that honors tradition while embracing modern scientific understanding.
Reclaiming the Herb
To truly reclaim cannabis, India must navigate its path beyond outdated stigmas. Acknowledging the herb’s cultural, religious, and medicinal relevance can open doors to informed discussions on its regulation. A policy rooted in education, research, and respect for tradition can ensure that cannabis serves as both a cultural gift and a tool for modern well-being.
