Beyond stoned

Sharmila Sinha explores the roots of bhang in the country’s rituals and culture

I first encountered bhang during my visit to Varanasi—the timeless city on the banks of the Ganga and the temple abode of bhang-loving god Shiva. “Padi, ya na padi (With or without)?” asked the vendor at Godhuliya Chowk selling thandaai, chilled milk with finely powdered almonds, fennel seeds, rose petals and saffron. My husband and my mother exchanged smiles and said, “Na padi (Without).” Then, some 20 years ago, the question and answer intrigued me. The thandaai wala was asking us whether we wanted the drink with or without bhang, leaves and flower tops of hemp.

Varanasi and bhang can be said in one breath. I have seen it being offered with datura flowers (Datura stramonium) to the Lord of the City in the temple adjoining the haveli where we would often stay during our visits to Varanasi. On the day of Holi, pakoras (fritters) made of hemp leaves are a special attraction (see recipes).

Bhang or hemp (Cannabis sativa), whatever one may choose to call it, has been an integral part of not only Varanasi but several ancient civilisations across the world. It is said that cannabis originated in the Himalaya and travelled the world over as weed. Its use and abuse have been recorded from time immemorial.

The first known cloth was made in China in 8,000 BC from hemp. The two essential materials used in ship-building—from the times of Vikings and Columbus—were wood and hemp. Ropes and sails made from hemp fibres were strong and pliable. They could take on harsh winds and withstand varying weather.

The paper, on which some of the classics of literature, including Alice in Wonderland, were written, was made from hemp. Besides, several therapeutic properties are associated with cannabis.