Holi 2022: The reason why Bhang is consumed on Holi

From "Bhang ka rang jama ho chaka chak" to "Zara si aur pila do Bhang", there are enough Bollywood scores dedicated to this Holi-special drink. Holi is not only the most colourful festival of our country but undoubtedly the most fun one as well.

The day of Holi witnesses large public gatherings, where people gather with friends and family to celebrate this festival of colours. Be it kids or adults, everyone is seen playing with colours, splashing water balloons on one another, dancing to tunes and enjoying some scrumptious snacks.

One drink that is synonymous with Holi is Bhaang Thandai which is specially prepared on this special occasion. Here is the story behind its popularity. (image credits-istock)

When it comes to snacks, Gujiya is the most popular mithai served on Holi but Thandai occupies the top spot in terms of drinks, that too Bhang Thandai.

Bhang is usually served after mixing it in milk to make a special Bhang Milkshake or Bhang Lassi or Bhang Thandai. A mixture of almonds, cashews, pistachios, melon seeds, poppy seeds, peppercorns, rose petals along with Bhang are used to make a rich and tasty thandai. People also consume Bhang Goli to experience a strong high on the day of Holi.

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The association of Bhang with Lord Shiva is not unknown. Bhang is said to be Shiv’s favourite food and he is also known as the ‘Lord of Bhang. But do you how Bhang got associated with Shiv ji? Here’s an interesting story, as per a legend.

One day Shiva ran into the fields after having an altercation with his family. He slept under a leafy plant after getting tired and when he woke up he chewed on the leaves of the pant, out of curiosity. The plant was a Bhang shrub and instantly made Shiva feel rejuvenated. That’s how Bhang became Shiv’s favourite.

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According to the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985, the sale and use of cannabis resin and flowers are prohibited but the usage of its seeds, stems and leaves is allowed. Thus, Bhang is legal in India.

Ayurveda recognizes the medicinal value of the cannabis plant and was even termed the "penicillin of Ayurvedic medicine" in 1894 by the Indian Hemp Drugs Commission.

Usage of the cannabis plant is also mentioned in the ancient Hindu sacred scripture, the Atharvaveda, where it is described as one of the five most sacred plants on earth.

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