Weed in Kota: The Hidden Cannabis Culture
Kota, Rajasthan, is primarily known as India’s coaching hub, with thousands of students flocking to the city every year for IIT-JEE and NEET preparations. While Kota is famous for its intense academic atmosphere, a hidden cannabis (ganja) culture exists in the city, primarily among students and laborers seeking relief from stress. Despite being illegal under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985, cannabis consumption continues discreetly in some circles.
Is Weed Legal in Kota?
Cannabis is illegal in Kota, as it is across India. The NDPS Act bans the possession, sale, and consumption of weed, with strict penalties, including heavy fines and imprisonment. Rajasthan Police and anti-narcotics units actively monitor drug-related activities, especially in cities like Kota, which have a large student population.
However, an exception exists in the form of bhang, a cannabis-infused drink that is legally available at government-licensed shops in Rajasthan. Bhang is commonly consumed during festivals like Holi and Maha Shivratri and is considered socially acceptable in many parts of the state. However, other forms of cannabis, such as ganja (dried marijuana flowers) and charas (hashish), remain illegal.
Where Do People Get Weed in Kota?
Since weed is not legally sold, those who seek it in Kota rely on underground sources. Some common ways people access cannabis include:
- Local Dealers in Secluded Areas – Some known hotspots include small tea stalls, riverbanks, and isolated parks.
- Supply from Neighboring States – Weed is often transported from Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, where illegal cultivation is more common.
- Slum and Industrial Areas – Some laborers and daily wage workers engage in small-scale cannabis trade.
- College and Coaching Institute Networks – Students who consume weed rely on word-of-mouth connections to find sources.
- Online and Dark Web Sources – Some tech-savvy users explore digital platforms, though this carries a higher risk.
The most commonly available weed in Kota is patti (low-quality, leafy cannabis), which is often mixed with other substances. High-quality ganja is rare, and charas (hashish) from Himachal Pradesh is available only at a premium price.
Who Uses Weed in Kota?
Cannabis consumption in Kota is mostly found among:
- Students and Young Adults – Some use it as a way to deal with academic stress.
- Daily Wage Workers and Laborers – Many use cannabis as a cheap way to relax after long working hours.
- Sadhus and Spiritual Seekers – Some religious practitioners use cannabis for meditation and rituals.
- Artists and Musicians – A small number of creative individuals consume cannabis for inspiration.
The Future of Weed in Kota
Kota’s strict law enforcement and focus on academic discipline mean that cannabis remains largely underground. While there are ongoing discussions about medical cannabis and industrial hemp in India, recreational weed remains illegal. Authorities continue to crack down on drug-related activities, making access to cannabis riskier. For now, the cannabis culture in Kota remains hidden, with those who consume it doing so discreetly while law enforcement keeps a close watch.