Holi celebrations in India are often incomplete without bhang, the intoxicating drink that has become synonymous with the festival of colors. But how did this cannabis-based concoction become a Holi staple?
The Tradition of Bhang
Bhang, made from the leaves and seeds of the cannabis plant, has been a part of Indian culture for centuries. Ancient texts, including the Vedas, mention its use in Ayurveda for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and spiritual experiences. Even during British rule, its cultural significance was so strong that a government study discouraged banning it.
Why Bhang on Holi?
Holi’s association with bhang traces back to Hindu mythology. It is believed that Kamadeva, the god of love, used bhang to bring Lord Shiva out of deep meditation, marking the festival as a time of joy and awakening. Over time, drinking bhang-infused thandai became a Holi tradition, symbolizing fun, freedom, and the spirit of the festival.
Is Bhang Legal?
Though India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 criminalizes cannabis, bhang remains in a legal gray area. The law bans the plant’s resin and flowers but excludes leaves and seeds, allowing bhang to be sold legally in cities like Varanasi, Jaisalmer, and Pushkar.Despite legal debates, bhang continues to be a Holi favorite, adding an extra dose of exhilaration to the festival’s colorful chaos.
