]> 2026-05-07T09:52:11+07:00 Research:1977-07-01/Journal article/tantric-cannabis-use-in-india 0 en-gb 10.1080/02791072.1977.10472053 2026-03-17Z 2461116.5 Michael R. Aldrich 1977-07-01Z 2443325.5 Primary ethnographic and textual analysis tracing ceremonial cannabis use in Indian Tantrism to three converging Vedic traditions: magical use of bhang (Atharva Veda, second millennium BC), divine poison-drinking mythology (Churning of the Milk Ocean), and drug yoga (oshadhi/siddhi). Provides the most detailed English-language description of the vijaya (cannabis milkshake) consecration ritual from the Mahanirvana Tantra (c. 11th century AD), including full sequence of mantras, mudras and meditative stages. Notes approximately 90-minute interval between ingestion and ritual climax corresponds to pharmacological onset of oral cannabis. Argues vijaya functions as essential "sense-heightener" not merely a disinhibitor. Reports Tantric practice peaked in medieval Bengal and Himalayan kingdoms; in Bengal cannabis called siddhi (pun on "occult powers"). Personal communication from Prof. Agehananda Bharati that as of mid-1960s no one performed full traditional ceremonies. Author affiliated with Fitz Hugh Ludlow Memorial Library, San Francisco. Tantric Cannabis Use in India Journal of Psychedelic Drugs 2026-03-17T12:45:04Z 2461117.0312963 Research:1977-07-01/Journal article/tantric-cannabis-use-in-india