Holy Bhang

Until the late eighties in Indian towns and villages  you could easily find  "government shops" which legally and traditionally sold charas (cannabis resin), and opium. "Thanks" to the pressure of  Western drug warriors, these shops have since long been closed (obviously their products are still on sale but you have to discreetly ask around now....) and currently the drug of choice of many Indians is alcohol (often of low quality), with all its well known nefarious 'side effects' (violence, sexual abuses etc.) Just one of the price tags of the global westernization I suppose...
Fortunately the little shops which sell bhang (a paste made with cannabis flowers and leaves and mixed with water, or milk or yoghurt and spices) are still open for the benefit of local population and travelers.... Bhang is traditionally drunk for relax and general well being, artistic inspiration, as an aid to meditation or simply to have a good, mellow time....Bhang is sacred to Shiva, hence is often offered in temples during particular celebrations...