Weed in Sambhaji Nagar: The Hidden Cannabis Culture in Maharashtra
Sambhaji Nagar, formerly known as Aurangabad, is a city rich in history, culture, and heritage. Known for its proximity to the Ajanta and Ellora caves, the city is a blend of tradition and modernity. While Maharashtra has a well-established underground cannabis culture, Sambhaji Nagar has a relatively quiet but existing weed scene.
Despite its illegal status, cannabis use persists among different sections of society, including students, daily wage workers, and spiritual seekers. The city’s connection to pilgrimage sites and a younger population due to universities makes it an interesting case for cannabis consumption.
Is Weed Legal in Sambhaji Nagar?
Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985, cannabis is illegal in Sambhaji Nagar, as it is in the rest of India. Possessing, selling, or consuming weed can result in strict legal action, including fines and imprisonment. Maharashtra has strict drug enforcement policies, and authorities regularly conduct raids to curb illegal trade.
However, bhang, a cannabis-infused drink, is legally available in some licensed shops, especially during festivals like Holi and Mahashivratri. While smoking cannabis is banned, bhang remains a legal loophole for those looking for a mild cannabis experience.
Where Do People Get Weed in Sambhaji Nagar?
Although not openly sold, those who seek cannabis in Sambhaji Nagar can find it through various sources, including:
- Local Dealers in Discreet Areas – Small-scale dealers operate in hidden spots, but police action makes their trade risky.
- College and University Circles – Some students rely on private networks to obtain weed, though access is limited.
- Rural and Forested Areas Nearby – Some villages and remote locations in Maharashtra are known for small-scale cannabis cultivation.
- Pilgrimage and Religious Centers – Some sadhus and devotees use cannabis as part of spiritual rituals.
- Online and Encrypted Platforms – With increasing restrictions, some users turn to digital means to source cannabis.
The cannabis available in Sambhaji Nagar is mostly low-quality patti (leafy weed), usually sourced from within Maharashtra or nearby states like Madhya Pradesh. High-quality charas (hash) from Himachal Pradesh or Nepal is rare and expensive.
Who Uses Weed in Sambhaji Nagar?
Cannabis consumption in Sambhaji Nagar is not as widespread as in Mumbai or Pune, but it exists among:
- Students and Young Adults – A small percentage of students experiment with cannabis recreationally.
- Laborers and Daily Wage Workers – Some use it to cope with stress and physical exhaustion.
- Sadhus and Spiritual Practitioners – Certain religious followers use cannabis during meditation and rituals.
- Creative Individuals – Artists and musicians occasionally use it for inspiration.
The Future of Weed in Sambhaji Nagar
With growing conversations about cannabis legalization in India, Maharashtra may consider regulated use in the future. However, as of now, law enforcement remains strict, making public cannabis consumption risky.
For now, weed in Sambhaji Nagar remains an underground phenomenon—known to some but never openly discussed.