Holi – the festival of colorful celebrations, is set to take place on the 13th and 14th March, 2025. People celebrate Holi in various ways – by throwing colors at each other, arranging house parties, meeting friends and family, and of course engaging in some classic bhang!
The bhang is a dark green paste made by combining cannabis leaves and some spices and has been a Holi staple for many years now. On the occasion of Holi, this paste is combined with thandai, a milk-based drink, as a way of celebrating the festival. So, here’s how you should enjoy bhang responsibly and safely this Holi!
What Is Bhang?
Before we get into the etiquettes and the how-to guide for bhang, let’s understand what it is exactly. It is a paste made from the leaves and buds of the Cannabis Sativa plant.
In India, the mixture has been featured in many ancient food recipes and traditions – including the festival of Holi. It finds mentions in Ayurvedic texts that say that it has been used in many treatments against nausea and physical pain.
Even though cannabis is illegal in India today, bhang has been widely consumed, especially during festivals and important rituals. In fact, during festivals like Holi, you’ll openly find bhang being sold or consumed in many religious cities and towns as well.
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Bhang During Holi
Holi is mostly known for its colors and, well, bhang! This paste is mixed with milk, sugar, spices, and nuts to concoct a refreshing thandai. To effectively mix it in milk, bhang is available in a powdered form as well as small, round tablets.
While thandai is a drink that often doesn’t contain bhang, there are some versions that infuse the latter with the milk-based drink to give a sedating effect to the consumer.
Consuming this ‘special’ version of thandai, especially in excessive amounts, can first lead to intoxication and hallucination. As the ingredient slowly starts unveiling its effects, you’ll start feeling dizzy and nauseous. Other important after effects include fatigue, increased heart rate, and dehydration.
How To Responsibly Consume Bhang: The Dos
- Bhang has hallucinating effects on your brain, so if you are consuming it, it is best recommended to do so in an open space. Consuming it in an enclosed space can make you feel claustrophobic, thanks to its hallucinogenic properties.
- Drink lots of water! This point can’t be stressed enough, as bhang tends to dehydrate quite quickly in a short amount of time. Drinking water will help you stay hydrated and lessen the effects of hallucinations.
- Keep bhang and other related products away from children below the age of 21 and pregnant women as it may have adverse effects on their bodies if consumed.
- If you’re feeling nauseous or dizzy after consuming bhang, immediately seek help from the nearest person you can find.
- If you’re attending a Holi party where you’ll likely consume bhang, make sure you keep a list of emergency contacts handy on your mobile phone, just in case of an emergency!
How To Responsibly Consume Bhang: The Don’ts
- No matter how intoxicated or hallucinated you feel, do not misbehave with anyone!
- Strictly refrain from adding any kind of alcohol to your drink – this will only end up making the intoxication worse.
- Do not stay out in direct sunlight after you’ve consumed bhang. It might lead to dehydration and dizziness. Instead, find a well-ventilated space and rest if you feel uncomfortable.
- Try to avoid headache painkillers, as they might induce bloating and acidity.
- Do not consume bhang on an empty stomach. Having some food before consuming it will reduce the effects of the bhang.
- If you’re suffering from a heart disorder or blood pressure issues, avoid bhang at all costs.
- Do not drive after you’ve consumed bhang.
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Summing Up
The essence of Holi is best celebrated by relishing on food and drinks with your friends and family. However, if you’re consuming drinks such as bhang, we recommend doing so in moderate amounts. Our list of dos and don’ts is certainly here to help you gauge how much bhang will make your Holi celebration truly memorable!
FAQs
Is Bhang Allowed In Hinduism?
Yes, bhang is allowed in Hinduism. In fact, this paste finds its mention in many Ayurvedic texts for its medicinal properties. Besides, it has been widely consumed since ancient times, both in rituals and as a form of recreation.
Do People Drink Bhang On Holi?
Yes, people do drink bhang on Holi. Along with sweet and savory dishes like gujiya, namakpaare, and laddoos, bhang, especially the one mixed in thandai, is really popular during Holi.
Should I Eat After Bhang?
Some time after you’ve consumed bhang, you can eat a light meal to replenish essential nutrients lost due to dehydration or vomiting, if any. However, it is recommended to keep consuming water at regular intervals to keep your system hydrated.
