Cannabis, also known as marijuana, ganja refers to any number of preparations of the cannabis plant. It was used as a medicine for thousands of years.
In the ancient times it was used extensively to relax and change mood. It also found its place in various religious rituals to provoke self-consciousness and love for other.
Humans have known Cannabis from as early as early as 6000 B.C, when cannabis seeds were used as food grains in China. During that time textile was an important part of any civilization therefore every early civilization cultivated hemp. Hemp was cultivated for food and fiber till 1500 B.C.
Cannabis in India dates back to the time of Vedas. In Atharva Veda, Cannabis is referred to as “bhang”. It was believed to prevent one from diseases and even for a longer life! The Ayur Veda mentions that the physicians of ancient India have long been using Cannabis to treat diseases and medical problems like headaches, menstrual pains, anemia, gout, poor appetite and even pain of child birth.
An important mention of Cannabis in the old Vedas and other books is for use of it in worshiping of the deity Shiva. In has been an integral part of “Tantra Yoga”. In many practices of this yoga intoxicating drink containing bhang or Cannabis is consumed in order to liberate oneself. The ritual marks following the law of Shiva. Before consuming this herb a mantra: "Bhava na sana hridayam" is chanted, which means: "may this sana (Sanskrit for Cannabis) be a blessing to my heart." Till this date every year on Shivratri (a festival in India in which deity Shiva is worshiped), and Holi, Cannabis is consumed in various forms to mark the surrender to lord of yoga (Shiva – Hindu god for transformation).
A drink is made from the leaves and buds of cannabis, which is very intoxicating and helps to escalate the spirit of the festivity. It is consumed without any restriction.
Due to religious and historical aspects Cannabis is an important aspect in Indian culture.“Ganja” as it is referred to in India or Cannabis is second most preferred drug mostly used by the youths, hardworking laborers and the rural population due to its cheapness and frequent availability. Ganja is popular among the youth and consumed with cigarettes as a form of relaxation of mind and body .Laborers and rural population consume ganja to get relief from their hard work through ’hookah’ (earthen pipes). Ganja is often rolled into beedis (a cheap replica of cigarette in India) and Cigarettes for consumption.
In India drug addiction is a serious problem and is taking a serious shape day by day.Most of the Indian population still lives in the villages. Because of illiteracy and unawareness of health hazards Cannabis is consumed without restrictions. The law enforcement authorities of the country have not been successful to educate people about the dangers of consumption of Cannabis.
Every thing comes with pros and cons, but with proper knowledge and education, its on us how we use it and, make that thing a boon or a bane for ourselves!!
