The 45th All India Cannabis Friendship Gathering, held during Baba Ramdevji’s Bhadwa fair in Ramdevra, attracted around 2,000 cannabis enthusiasts from across the country. Organized by the Bhalla Foundation Trust, the event featured a unique concoction of cannabis, milk, almonds, raisins, and sugar candy, which was consumed by participants in just half an hour. The festival, which has been a tradition for over five decades, aims to promote love and affection among devotees of all classes.
A Unique Celebration of Cannabis Culture
The National Cannabis Festival in Ramdevra is a distinctive celebration that brings together cannabis enthusiasts from various parts of India. This year, the event saw the preparation of a two-quintal concoction, consisting of 11 kg of cannabis, 1 quintal of milk, 21 kg of almonds, 5 kg of raisins, and 11 kg of sugar candy. The mixture was carefully prepared over four to five hours and offered to Lord Shiva before being consumed by the participants.
The festival is not just about the consumption of cannabis but also about the cultural and spiritual significance it holds for the devotees. Chants in praise of Lord Shiva echoed throughout the event, creating a spiritual atmosphere. The gathering serves as a platform for like-minded individuals to connect, share experiences, and celebrate their shared passion for cannabis.
Promoting Unity and Tradition
The All India Cannabis Friendship Gathering has a long-standing tradition of promoting unity and affection among its participants. Organized annually on Dashami during the Bhadwa fair, the event attracts devotees from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ganganagar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Pali, Jalore, Sirohi, and Bikaner. The Bhalla Foundation Trust, which organizes the event, emphasizes the importance of community and togetherness.
The festival also highlights the cultural heritage of Ramdevra and its significance in the lives of the devotees. The event has been a part of the local tradition for over fifty years, and its continued success is a testament to its importance in the community. The gathering not only celebrates cannabis but also fosters a sense of belonging and unity among the participants.
A Growing Enthusiasm
The increasing number of participants at the National Cannabis Festival reflects the growing enthusiasm for cannabis culture in India. This year, Om Thanvi from Phalodi consumed the highest amount of cannabis, followed by Madan Jeri from Bikaner, while Vishnu Sharma and Kedar from Jodhpur jointly ranked third. The event’s popularity continues to rise, attracting more enthusiasts each year.
The festival’s success also underscores the changing perceptions of cannabis in India. While traditionally associated with spirituality and culture, cannabis is now being recognized for its potential medicinal and industrial uses. Events like the National Cannabis Festival play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and promoting a more open and informed dialogue about cannabis.
