Cannabis has a long story in India, surviving many changes in culture, religion, and politics. This story explores how cannabis started in Central Asia and influenced India over time1.
It links deeply with Hinduism and Ayurvedic medicine. It's a big part of India's different cultures. Despite bans, it stands as a symbol of India's continued customs and values2.
Key Takeaways
Cannabis has a history of thousands of years, originating from Central Asia's nomadic tribes1.
In ancient times, women collected wild foods, and men hunted animals for food1.
Cannabis can grow almost anywhere, from by streams to places with rich waste from humans1.
Early Indians found ways to make strong materials from cannabis for cords, yarn, and cloth1.
The endocannabinoid system is important for many health areas like fighting cancer and stomach issues2.
Ancient Origins and Cultivation
The history of cannabis dates back to Central Asia's steppes over 12,000 years ago3. Evidently, burned seeds in Siberian graves from 3,000 B.C. show its early use3. Around 4000 B.C., ancient China already valued cannabis for its healing powers4.
Cannabis as an Ancient Crop in Central Asia
Ancient Hindu texts called the Vedas name cannabis among five holy plants, perhaps as early as 2000-1400 B.C3. The Indian Hemp Drugs Commission interviewed over 1,000 people across India in the 19th century. They found that the use of cannabis, especially in the form of bhang, was widespread and not harmful when used wisely3.
Early Evidence of Cannabis Use in India
India has a long history with cannabis. A 1957 report by the UN stated that 3.2% of Indians used cannabis by 20005. In 2019, the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences reported about 7.2 million recent cannabis users5. Also, a 2019 survey showed that around 31 million Indians, aged 10-75, used cannabis currently5.
Cannabis was very affordable in India, with prices as low as US$0.10 per gram in 20165. In fact, India had some of the cheapest cannabis and opium prices in the world, according to a report by the International Narcotics Control Board in 20184.
"The Indian Hemp Drugs Commission Report of 1894 concluded that suppressing the use of herbal cannabis (bhang) would be unjustifiable and that its use is ancient, sanctioned in Hinduism, and harmless in moderation."
In India, cannabis plays a big role in spiritual life. Bhang, a cannabis drink, helps Hindu ascetics, called sadhus, during their rituals345.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Cannabis is very important in Indian culture and religion, especially for Hindus and in Ayurveda6. The god Shiva and cannabis go hand in hand in Hindu myth. It's thought that cannabis helped Shiva meditate deeply7. Bhang, a drink made with cannabis, has been a part of religious rituals for centuries. In Varanasi's Kashi Vishwanath temple, Pathak's family has been making it for 150 years7.
Role of Cannabis in Hinduism and Ayurveda
Hindu legends say that cannabis can help when taken in small amounts7. Ayurvedic traditions also recognize it as a valuable herb, able to ease anxiety and other issues7. This is why it's still important in India today, with a long and deep connection to the culture and spirituality.
Cannabis blends deeply with India's religious and spiritual life, especially in Hinduism6. Bhang is not just a drink; it's mixed into foods like pakora and chutneys in approved shops7. In the 19th century, the British wanted to learn more about bhang's role in India, showing how significant it was7.
"Cannabis in India has a history of thousands of years. It was used for spiritual matters and health benefits, not only leisure. It's a key part of Hindu rituals and Ayurvedic methods."
The Blue Lassi Shop in Varanasi is famous for its bhang lassi, with over 80 kinds on offer7. In Varanasi, over 200 shops sell bhang through the year7, showing how it's embraced and cherished in Indian customs768.
Spread Across the Indian Subcontinent
Cannabis has a fascinating history in the Indian subcontinent. It comes from Central Asia's steppes, areas now in Mongolia and southern Siberia9. People have been using cannabis for about 12,000 years, making it one of our first crops9. Seeds have been found in Siberian mounds from 3,000 B.C., showing early use there9.
Cannabis spread to South Asia between 2000 B.C. and 1000 B.C. thanks to the Aryans9. It reached the Middle East between 2000 B.C. and 1400 B.C. through the Scythians, a group from Central Asia9. These groups helped spread cannabis across the Indian subcontinent as they moved and settled in new places.
The cannabis plant fit well in India due to its ability to grow in many climates. It's praised for its health benefits in Ayurveda and called "The Conquerer" in ancient texts10. This helped it become a key part of religious practices, festivals, and daily life, enriching the region's culture.
As time went by, cannabis became deeply rooted in Indian society. It was used as early as 2000 BC and was known by different names based on how it was prepared10. From the Himalayas to the tip of the peninsula, cannabis flourished, becoming an integral part of Indian culture.
The Charas Trade and Hashish Production
Charas is a highly valued type of hashish made in India by hand. It comes from rubbing resin off cannabis flowers11. This practice started in the Himalayas, where people have cultivated cannabis for ages. They have made a living from producing and selling charas, even though growing cannabis is illegal11.
Charas: The Prized Hashish of the Himalayas
Charas is a type of hashish found in the Indian subcontinent and Jamaica. It's made by hand from live cannabis plants. The Himalayas and Northern India are home to wild cannabis that locals use to make charas, their main cash crop11.
Charas serves both medicinal and spiritual purposes and has been a tradition there for ages. But, laws in the 1980s made it illegal, trying to stop both its sale and use11. Still, charas is well-loved and used by spiritual leaders for religious rituals11.
Lives of Himalayan Cannabis Farmers
Cannabis farmers in the Himalayas face many struggles. They mainly come from places like Parvati Valley and Kashmir11. In India, charas from Himachal Pradesh is considered the best11. Even though growing cannabis is illegal, its production continues12. Many believe the ban doesn't work well and needs to change12.
The Himalayan farmers depend on the charas trade for their livelihood. It's not easy work; to make a small amount of charas, farmers need many cannabis buds. Despite these issues, the region is known for its high-quality hashish. There is also a lot of illegal trade from India to Europe11.
"Charas was made illegal in India under pressure from the United States in 1985."11
The Indian government hasn't fully checked on cannabis farming because it's illegal12. It's thought that about 400 of India's 640 districts are involved in growing cannabis12. The ban on cannabis has both supporters and those who think it should be legal4. They see potential benefits from making cannabis legal and more use in traditional medicine like Ayurveda4.
How did cannabis survive all these years in india?
India has held on to cannabis for ages, thanks to its cultural and spiritual meanings13. Even though it's not legal, people still grow it. This is especially true in the Himalayas. Here, cannabis is important for the local economy and people's lives12.
Deep-Rooted Cultural Ties and Spiritual Traditions
Cannabis is deeply tied to Indian life, used in many ways like in religious practices and medicine8. It's been part of spiritual practices for a long time. Even ancient texts mention it. This bond helps keep cannabis a big part of Indian culture, despite the law12.
Illegal but Ubiquitous Cultivation
In 1985, India made it illegal to use certain parts of the cannabis plant13. This Act didn't stop its growth, though. In the Himalayas, people grow a type of hashish called charas to support their families12. Even with such laws, much of India grows cannabis. Around 400 areas out of 640 are active in its production12.
The ongoing presence of cannabis in India comes from its strong cultural and spiritual roots. Even though it's often grown illegally, it thrives1312. This resilience has shaped India's unique relationship with cannabis8.
"Cannabis has been woven into the fabric of Indian society, with its use in religious rituals, Ayurvedic medicine, and everyday life."
Modern Cannabis Laws and Prohibition
India has a long history with cannabis, including times of acceptance and prohibition. In 1961, it joined the UN Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. This made cannabis illegal in 1985 under the NDPS Act14. Yet, some Indian states still sell items like bhang legally.
India's Shifting Legal Landscape
The first global control of cannabis came in 1925. This was under the International Opium Convention14. The world's approach to cannabis has changed a lot since then. The U.S. banned its legal uses in 1937 with the Marihuana Tax Act14.
By 1969, strict U.S. laws blocked cannabis research14. Egypt was the first to ban its farming, doing so in the 1800s14.
However, attitudes toward cannabis have been slowly shifting. By June 2019, eleven U.S. states and Washington, D.C., allowed recreational marijuana15. Across 50 countries, medical marijuana is now legal. Places like Canada and Uruguay permit it for recreational use16. In December 2020, the UN Commission made changes that might lead to more research on cannabis for medical use16.
India is also changing how it deals with cannabis. It's looking at the plant for things like fiber and oil. And, research groups in India are studying cannabis for health benefits16.
In India, cannabis is linked to ancient practices and ceremonies. Some regions still sell items like bhang openly. The global chat about cannabis laws is ongoing, with each country, including India, finding its own approach141615.
Medicinal and Industrial Uses
Cannabis in India has a rich history in both medicine and industry. Ayurvedic doctors have been using it for years to treat different health problems16. For instance, Epidiolex® helps kids with Dravet syndrome, while Sativex® eases muscle stiffness in those with multiple sclerosis16. The body's endocannabinoid system helps explain how Cannabis works medicinally16.
Not just for health, industrial hemp from Cannabis is vital for making many products. It has been crucial for things like clothes, paper, and rope across the world15. In India, laws promote using Cannabis for things like fiber and oil16.
In India, the legal side of Cannabis is tricky. It's seen as a drug, but people are seeing its many uses16. The country is toughing out rules around growing and using it16.
Medicinal Use | Industrial Use |
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The benefits of Cannabis in India are clear, but its future is still debated. With ongoing talks about its legal uses, many keep watching how it will play out16.
"Cannabis has a long history of medicinal and industrial applications in India. Ayurvedic texts have long recognized the plant's therapeutic properties, prescribing it for various ailments."
Cannabis Tourism and Bhang Culture
India's connection with cannabis has shaped a unique tourism scene and cultural practices, especially in Rajasthan17. The country's laws ban many cannabis products since 1985. But they made an exception for bhang, a traditional mix18. This move lets government-approved "bhang shops" sell a variety of cannabis treats like milkshakes and cookies18.
Exploring the Bhang Shops of Rajasthan
Bhang shops are now a hot spot for tourists looking to experience India's cannabis culture18. For example, Dr. Bhang's shop has been around for nearly 50 years. It has served the community across three generations18. The store sees more business during Hindu celebrations, like Holi, when consuming bhang is common18.
At these shops, visitors can try all sorts of cannabis-infused treats. They have everything from classic bhang drinks to more modern options18. Prices are usually about ₹150 ($2) each18. But, newbies are warned about how strong these treats can be. The shop's owner, Dr. Bhang, suggests a way to feel better if things get too intense18.
Bhang's importance in India is often overlooked, despite its rich history and links to religion19. India's laws treating marijuana the same as harsher drugs has had some bad effects. For instance, people turning to more dangerous substances instead. Still, bhang shops are going strong, and more people are showing interest. This shows a possible comeback for this tradition in India, stirring debates on its social suitability19.
"Bhang includes safe plant parts approved by the NDPS Act. The cannabis used for bhang in India mostly comes from Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. People work around legal issues to keep the cannabis industry alive in India."18
The Future of Cannabis in India
The debate continues over the future of cannabis in India20. At the India Today Conclave Mumbai 2022, it was said that India could build a billion-dollar industry around cannabis and hemp20. Hemp has very low THC, which means it doesn't make you high. It's perfect for health and food20. The hemp plant takes 90-100 days to grow. It has 25,000 known uses and helps our planet by cleaning soil and absorbing carbon dioxide20. It takes 120 days for hemp to grow as a fiber. It's been used for making paper, including the one used for the US declaration of independence20. In the medicinal and recreational markets, hemp has already made over a billion dollars worldwide20. India is known for its textiles and has been using hemp in clothes and other textile products20. Hemp is also recognized in Ayurveda, where it's called bhaang, for its medicinal properties.
Debates on Legalization and Regulation
Although growing and using cannabis is mostly against the law, some people want the government to think again. They believe there could be good reasons to make it legal and regulated21. There are more than 1,000 different names for cannabis, which shows how much it's used21. India earned about Rs 1.75 lakh crore from alcohol taxes in 2019-20, showing it's a big income source21. Additionally, the government makes over Rs 53,000 crore every year from taxing tobacco, showing yet another major income stream21. In 2019, the law against cannabis led to the arrest of 72,000 people. Most of them were charged for having or using cannabis21. Several countries, like Canada and 18 US states, have legalized using cannabis for fun21. In India, the 1985 NDPS Act says only some parts of the cannabis plant can be used. It forbids using resin and flowers21. This raises questions about why some drugs are legal while others, possibly just as potent, are not.
22 Canada started its industrial hemp program in 201522. Since 2003, Canada has discussed changing its laws on cannabis22. The U.S. Department of Agriculture looked into the money-making side of industrial hemp in 202022. Since 1998, there's been a history focused on cannabis use in India22. In 2015, research showed the genetic differences between marijuana and hemp22. Medicine studies on cannabis go back to at least 200322. A 2019 study looked at different types of research marijuana22. Also, studies have been done to see if cannabis can help children with autism since 201922. A 2020 study focused on whether cannabis helps adults with anxiety22. In 2018, there was research into the plant systematics of Cannabis22. And as early as 2003, there were studies on the chemical make-up of Cannabis sativa22. In 2019, a paper discussed using terpenes to select the best hemp varieties22. A 2013 study looked into the history and evolution of the plant family Cannabaceae.
There's a lot to consider, including the effects on local communities and traditional uses, when talking about cannabis. In India, many people could benefit from the use of cannabis, such as women with periods, those in chronic pain, and stressed workers20. When it comes to cannabis, India gives a lot of freedom to each state. This allows them to make their own rules about how cannabis is used, moved, and taken for medical reasons20. If used well, hemp could change the way we view drug laws. It could make us focus more on health and community well-being20. It's important to teach people about the good sides of cannabis. This way, we can make the most of what it offers.
Preserving Traditions and Sustainable Practices
The cannabis scene in India is changing fast. Now, it's all about keeping the old ways and using earth-friendly growing methods23. Over time, farms for making psychoactive cannabis have shrunk from 6,000 acres to just 800 acres23. But, you can still find it growing naturally in many places, especially in the Himalayas' south and Assam's east23. This growth from nature shows how important cannabis is in India. It underlines the duty to protect these customs.
Keeping Himalayan farmers' wisdom alive is a big part of this. They've been growing weed in eco-friendly ways for ages24. Each cannabis plant needs 6 gallons of water a day in the growing season. This is more than plants like corn, soy, and wheat24. Putting these old practices into new, legal systems can help local people and nature. It deals with the worries about growing cannabis like its water use.
Growing cannabis can use a lot of water, which India's learning to manage better24. In California, each outdoor plant used over 5 gallons a day in August and 5 in September. Indoor plants need about 2.8 gallons a day24. These facts push for smarter ways to use water and tech that saves it. This helps India's cannabis growth not hurt our water supply.
India has a chance to be a leader in green weed growing worldwide25. It's about understanding the plant's genes and joining new and old knowledge25. Doing this can make India a top country in the sustainable weed market25.
"The preservation of traditional cannabis cultivation practices in India is not just about safeguarding cultural heritage, but also about ensuring the sustainability of the industry as a whole. By embracing both time-honored techniques and modern innovations, we can chart a path forward that benefits both local communities and the environment."
Sustainable Cannabis Practices | Benefits |
Protecting traditional farming knowledge | Supports local communities and ecosystems |
Adopting water-efficient cultivation methods | Addresses environmental concerns and water scarcity |
Integrating cutting-edge research and innovations | Positions India as a global leader in sustainable cannabis development |
Conclusion
The story of cannabis in India shows its strength and deep roots in the culture. Even with many obstacles and legal issues, the plant has stayed a key part of Indian life, blending both legal and illegal aspects26. Especially, Cannabis indica is very important for India historically and spiritually26.
The world is changing how it sees cannabis, and India's connection to it brings important lessons. It shows us how history, culture, and a search for truth and acceptance are all linked26. India banned cannabis in 1985 under The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. This was influenced by a global treaty, the UN's Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, which India signed in 196126.
However, cannabis's ability to return in India is quite amazing27. It grows everywhere there, like a native plant. Even if it's cut down, it grows back fast27. This shows that maybe the future for cannabis in India could be brighter than its past.
There's a lot more to discover about cannabis's benefits, both for medicine and industry28. With growing interest in its use for health and the development of hemp in India28, there’s a hopeful future ahead for cannabis in the country.
FAQ
What is the history of cannabis in India?
Cannabis likely started in Central Asia and moved to India. It's tied closely to Hinduism and Ayurveda. Even with long efforts to ban it, cannabis is deeply part of India's culture.
How has cannabis been used in Indian culture and traditions?
In Hinduism, cannabis is linked to Shiva. It's seen as having healing properties. Many people in India see it as sacred.
How has cannabis spread throughout the Indian subcontinent?
Different groups like the Aryans and the Scythians brought cannabis to India. Soon, it was part of daily life, rituals, and festivals.
What is the significance of charas and the Himalayan cannabis trade?
Charas, a kind of hashish, is highly valued in India. It comes from the Himalayan areas. Despite being illegal, growing and selling cannabis there supports many families.
How has cannabis prohibition affected its use in India?
India outlawed cannabis in the 1980s because of international agreements. However, the view on its use varies across regions. Some places keep using it for traditional purposes.
What are the medicinal and industrial uses of cannabis in India?
Ayurvedic medicine acknowledges cannabis for its healing qualities. People use it for various health problems. Also, its industrial form, hemp, is found in making textiles and paper.
How have cannabis tourism and cultural traditions developed in India?
In India, especially Rajasthan, there are government-approved places to buy cannabis products. These spots show the strong connection between the culture and the herb.
What is the future of cannabis in India?
With changes worldwide, India is also discussing the future of cannabis. This involves balancing traditions, the herb's medical and industrial uses, and the effects of bans on people.
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