Weed in Bhiwandi: An Insight into the Underground Cannabis Scene
Bhiwandi, a city in Maharashtra known for its textile industry and close proximity to Mumbai, has a diverse and growing population. While cannabis (ganja) remains illegal under Indian law, its presence in Bhiwandi exists within an underground network. Due to its location near Mumbai and Thane, where drug trade activities occasionally surface, weed finds its way into the city, albeit discreetly.
Is Weed Legal in Bhiwandi?
Like the rest of India, cannabis is illegal in Bhiwandi under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985. Possession, sale, transportation, or consumption of weed can result in imprisonment and heavy fines. The Maharashtra police keep a strict watch on drug-related activities, and there have been several crackdowns on cannabis supply chains.
However, bhang—a cannabis-infused drink made from the leaves of the plant—remains legally accessible in certain parts of Maharashtra. During festivals like Holi and Mahashivratri, bhang thandai or bhang lassi is consumed, as it holds religious and cultural significance. Unlike ganja (dried cannabis flowers) and charas (hashish), bhang is tolerated due to its association with Lord Shiva.
Where Do People Get Weed in Bhiwandi?
Since cannabis is not legally available, those who use it often rely on underground sources. Some common ways people access weed in Bhiwandi include:
- Local Dealers in Secluded Areas – Small-time peddlers discreetly sell cannabis in hidden spots, though the risk of law enforcement is high.
- Mumbai and Thane Supply Routes – Being close to major cities, some supply comes from Mumbai’s underground drug trade.
- Interstate Smuggling – Some cannabis in Bhiwandi is sourced from states like Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.
- Personal Contacts and Networks – Many users rely on trusted friends or referrals to get cannabis.
- Rural Areas and Villages – Some villages in Maharashtra have natural cannabis plants, though they are not commercially cultivated.
The quality of cannabis in Bhiwandi varies. The most common type is patti (leafy, low to mid-quality weed), while high-grade charas (hashish) is rare and expensive, often coming from Himachal Pradesh or Nepal.
Who Uses Weed in Bhiwandi?
Cannabis use in Bhiwandi exists across different groups, though it remains largely underground. The main consumers include:
- College Students and Young Adults – Some use it recreationally for relaxation or social experiences.
- Daily Wage Workers and Laborers – A section of the working class consumes cannabis to relieve stress and fatigue.
- Artists and Musicians – Some creative individuals use cannabis for inspiration.
- Spiritual Practitioners and Sadhus – Certain religious figures use cannabis in meditation and rituals.
The Future of Weed in Bhiwandi
Maharashtra remains firm in its drug policies, with frequent crackdowns on illegal substances, including cannabis. However, with India slowly discussing the medical use of cannabis and hemp cultivation, future reforms may change how the substance is perceived.
For now, weed in Bhiwandi remains part of an underground culture—used discreetly by those who seek it, while legal risks continue to be high.