Weed in Rajkot: The Quiet Cannabis Scene in Gujarat’s Industrial Hub
Rajkot, one of Gujarat’s fastest-growing cities, is known for its vibrant culture, booming industries, and rich history. While Gujarat is famous for its strict prohibition laws against alcohol, cannabis (ganja) consumption exists discreetly within certain sections of society. Despite the state’s tough stance on drugs, the underground weed culture in Rajkot continues to persist, especially among students, laborers, and young professionals.
Is Weed Legal in Rajkot?
Like the rest of India, cannabis is illegal in Rajkot under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985. Possession, sale, or consumption of weed can lead to heavy fines and imprisonment. Gujarat is one of the strictest states when it comes to drug enforcement, and the police frequently conduct raids to crack down on illegal drug trade.
Interestingly, bhang (a cannabis-infused drink) is legally available at government-licensed shops in Gujarat. This traditional form of cannabis is commonly consumed during festivals like Holi and Shivratri. The contradiction between bhang being legal while smoking weed is illegal highlights the complexities of India’s cannabis laws.
Where Do People Get Weed in Rajkot?
Despite strict enforcement, cannabis is still available in Rajkot through illegal sources. Some of the common places where people discreetly obtain weed include:
- Bus Stands and Railway Station Areas – Some small-time peddlers operate around transit hubs.
- University and College Areas – Students often have their own underground networks to access cannabis.
- Slum Areas and Low-Income Localities – Weed is sometimes available in these regions, though quality is inconsistent.
- Outskirts and Rural Areas – Some villages on the outskirts of Rajkot cultivate small amounts of cannabis for personal use and limited distribution.
- Online & Encrypted Apps – Many urban users prefer using digital platforms to access better-quality cannabis discreetly.
Most of the cannabis available in Rajkot is patti (low-quality leafy weed), usually sourced from neighboring states like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. High-quality charas (hash) from Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand is occasionally available but comes at a much higher price.
Who Smokes Weed in Rajkot?
Weed consumption in Rajkot is seen among various groups. College students and young professionals often use cannabis recreationally. Industrial workers and laborers sometimes turn to weed as an affordable alternative to alcohol, which is completely banned in Gujarat. Some businessmen and professionals discreetly consume cannabis as a stress reliever.
Additionally, a small number of religious followers and sadhus use cannabis for spiritual purposes, especially during religious ceremonies and festivals.
The Future of Weed in Rajkot
As discussions about cannabis legalization continue worldwide, India is also experiencing a slow shift in attitudes toward decriminalization. Some experts argue that legalizing marijuana could help reduce illegal trade and generate government revenue.
For now, however, cannabis remains illegal in Rajkot, and the police continue to crack down on its sale and consumption. While the weed culture exists underground, it is a quiet but persistent part of the city’s social scene.