'Bhang' consumption doubles on Maha Shivratri

Varanasi, Feb 16 (UNI) The presence of Ardh Kumbh returnee pilgrims, including the naga sadhus doubled the consumption of 'bhang' -- considered to be the treasured 'prasad' of Lord Shiv -- on the festival of Maha Shivratri here today.

State Excise Department sources said keeping in mind the rising demand for 'bhang' on Maha Shivratri, the department had released nearly 5,000 kgs of the intoxicant worth Rs 15 lakh to 49 government approved shops in the city during the month, up from normal monthly release of 2,400 kg.

The sale and consumption of 'bhang' on Maha Shivaratri today was pegged at over 500 kg, costing more than Rs 1.5 lakh, sources added.

The additional 'bhang' was also released in the market in the wake of Ardh Kumbh returnee 'sadhus' camping in the city who have a craving for the must have intoxicant on the festive day.

The bhang shops in the city served to the rush of festival revellers, who purchased the intoxicant in various forms including 'bhang golis,' 'bhang barfis,' 'bhang powder and monakka'.

''Offering bhang at various Lord Shiv temples across the city, considered His abode, is an integral ritual on Maha Shivratri. The same offering is then consumed by the devout either in the same form as offered or else with 'thandhai' -- cold drink made from milk, butter and yoghurt laced with the essence of saffron and almond,'' said Kailash, one of the bhang sellers.

''The daily consumption of bhang in the city is between 150 and 250 kg, but the sale, as in the past doubled on this festive day,'' he added.

The thandhai shops also reported a more than double rush in consumers, especially for 'bhang' laced 'thandhai' on Maha Shivratri.

''Maha Shivratri and Holi are the two festivals which all thandhai sellers wait for. As expected the sale has doubled on Maha Shivratri,'' said Manish, a thandhai seller.

UNI