Weed in Patna: The Hidden Cannabis Culture in Bihar’s Capital
Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and educational institutions. While Bihar has strict laws against alcohol and drug consumption, cannabis (ganja) still finds its way into certain sections of society. The city has a quiet but persistent weed culture, mainly among students, laborers, and spiritual seekers.
Is Weed Legal in Patna?
Like the rest of India, cannabis is illegal in Patna under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985. Possession, sale, or consumption of weed can lead to fines and imprisonment. Bihar also has a complete prohibition on alcohol, making it one of the strictest states in India when it comes to substance use.
However, there is a legal exception—bhang (a cannabis-infused drink) is legally available at government-licensed shops in Patna. It is commonly consumed during religious festivals like Holi and Shivratri. This contradiction in the law highlights India’s complex stance on cannabis, where smoking weed is illegal, but consuming bhang is culturally accepted.
Where Do People Get Weed in Patna?
Despite strict laws, weed is available through underground networks in Patna. Some common sources include:
- Ganga Ghats and Religious Sites – Some sadhus and spiritual seekers consume cannabis as part of their meditation practices.
- Near Patna Railway Station and Bus Stands – Small-time peddlers operate around transit hubs.
- Mithapur and Gandhi Maidan – These areas have discreet suppliers catering to local users.
- Suburban & Rural Areas – Some villages outside Patna cultivate small amounts of cannabis for personal use and small-scale distribution.
- Online & Telegram Networks – Tech-savvy users prefer sourcing cannabis through encrypted messaging platforms.
The majority of cannabis in Patna is patti (low-grade leafy weed) sourced from states like Jharkhand and Odisha. Occasionally, charas (hash) from Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand is available, but it is rare and expensive.
Who Smokes Weed in Patna?
Weed consumption in Patna is seen across different sections of society. Students from institutions like Patna University and NIT Patna often experiment with cannabis for recreational purposes. Some working professionals and businessmen also use it as a way to unwind.
Daily wage workers, rickshaw pullers, and laborers frequently turn to cannabis as an affordable alternative to alcohol, which is banned in Bihar. Additionally, some sadhus and religious followers continue to consume cannabis as part of traditional spiritual practices.
The Future of Weed in Patna
With global discussions on cannabis legalization gaining traction, India is also witnessing debates on decriminalization. Some experts argue that regulating marijuana could help control illegal trade and generate tax revenue.
For now, however, weed remains illegal in Patna. While law enforcement continues to crack down on the trade, the demand for cannabis persists, making it an unspoken yet growing part of the city’s social landscape.