weed in Prayagraj

Weed in Prayagraj: The Silent Cannabis Culture in the Holy City

Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad) is one of India’s most sacred cities, famous for the Triveni Sangam, Kumbh Mela, and its deep-rooted spiritual and cultural heritage. As a major religious and historical center, it attracts pilgrims, sadhus, and tourists throughout the year. While the city is known for its devotion and academic excellence, an underground cannabis culture quietly exists, often intertwined with spiritual practices and youth subcultures.

Although cannabis is illegal in Prayagraj, it is still consumed by various groups, including sadhus, students, and laborers. Whether for religious rituals, stress relief, or recreational use, weed has maintained its presence in the city despite strict laws.

Is Weed Legal in Prayagraj?

Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985, cannabis is illegal in Prayagraj. Possessing, selling, or consuming marijuana can result in heavy fines and imprisonment. The Uttar Pradesh Police and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) actively crack down on drug trafficking and illegal cannabis sales in the state.

However, the government allows the sale of bhang, a cannabis-based drink that has deep cultural and religious significance. Found at government-authorized shops, bhang is commonly consumed during festivals like Holi and Mahashivratri, particularly in devotion to Lord Shiva. This legal loophole makes bhang an accepted form of cannabis consumption, even as smoking weed remains illegal.

Where Do People Get Weed in Prayagraj?

Despite the legal restrictions, weed is not difficult to find in Prayagraj if one knows where to look. Some of the common sources include:

1. Sangam and Religious Sites – Many sadhus and ascetics consume cannabis as part of their spiritual practice, and some sources operate discreetly around these areas.
2. Bhang Shops – While bhang is legal, some shops may sell stronger cannabis products under the counter.
3. Old City Areas and Market Lanes – Certain street vendors operate in the inner lanes of the city.
4. Near Universities and Colleges – Students and young professionals often obtain cannabis through private networks.
5. Rural Areas and Villages Nearby – Some cannabis is grown in villages near Prayagraj and supplied to urban users.
6. Online & Encrypted Platforms – Some urban users prefer to source cannabis through digital networks for safety.

The cannabis found in Prayagraj is mostly patti (low-grade weed), sourced from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. Occasionally, charas (hash) from Himachal Pradesh or Nepal is available but at a higher price.

Who Consumes Weed in Prayagraj?

Weed consumption in Prayagraj is common among different groups, including:

• Sadhus and Holy Men – Many ascetics use cannabis as part of meditation and religious rituals.
• Students and Young Adults – Some university students consume weed recreationally.
• Laborers and Daily Wage Workers – Many use it as an affordable way to relax after a long day.
• Tourists and Pilgrims – Some visitors explore local cannabis culture, especially during Kumbh Mela.

The Future of Weed in Prayagraj

As India debates cannabis legalization, many argue that regulation could reduce illegal trade and improve product safety. However, Uttar Pradesh remains strict on drug enforcement, making any changes to the law unlikely in the near future.

For now, cannabis remains illegal in Prayagraj, but its use continues in hidden circles, especially among sadhus and religious followers. The city’s underground cannabis culture coexists with its deeply spiritual and historical identity, making it an interesting paradox of devotion and indulgence.