Indian Spirituality and Recreation

GANGJA (Marijuana) has been an essential part of Indian spirituality for centuries. The long and varied history of marijuana use dates back to 1500 BC.

The creators of Sanskrit, one of man's earliest written languages, produced a collection of four holy books, called the Artharvaveda. This ancient document describes how the god Shiva brought cannabis down from the Himalayas for his peoples' use and enjoyment. Shiva is known as the "Lord of Bhang" and to this day, his devotees engage in pot to attain the spiritual oneness with Shiva.

There are three main methods of enjoying marijuana in India:

Ganja is the flower (bud) and upper leaves of the female plant.

Charas is the strongest of the three preparations and contains a high concentration of resin and often compared to hashish.

Bhang is a cannabis chai. This milk and spice beverage was first used as part of the Hindu rite around 1000 BC. This beverage which includes cloves, cinnamon, rosewater and sugar is a sign of hospitality and served at celebrations. Bhang can be used as a term for marijuana, however it is most commonly a reference to the beverage.