Forbidden fun: Bhang-laced lassi at a shop in Patna. Picture by Ashok Sinha

Patna, March 17: Amitabh Bachchan’s Amit gets the licence to dance with Rekha’s Chandni and sing the immortal Rang barse… in Silsila after drinking a few glasses of bhang-laced thandai on Holi.

Though it has been officially banned, bhang is inseparable from the festival of colours.

Connoisseurs claim bhang is a must for it not only raises the spirit but also sets the mood for mischievous fun.

So, bhang mixed with laddu and other sweets, thandai, lassi and milkshake is being sold in shops near Patna Junction, Dakbungalow roundabout and New Market. Even raw bhang is available is available in the market. After all it is Holi and people throw caution to the winds.

“There are a lot of misconceptions about this magical drink. We do not sell it all the time as it is banned. But during Holi, people buy it because it tastes good with sweets and thandai,” said Manttu Kumar, a shopkeeper near Patna Junction.

Thandai laced with bhang is available for Rs 20, lassi for Rs 15 and laddus for Rs 10 a piece. To cool off you can have bhang with kulfi for Rs 5, and after your sumptuous meal you could chew on a paan laced with bhang for Rs 12.

Explaining the process of making bhang, Ram Parvesh, a shop owner, said: “It is made from the leaves and flowers of the female cannabis plant. It is harvested and prepared during Holi celebrations in March or April.

“It has now become synonymous with the festival of colours,” added Parvesh.

He also explained the effects of having bhang. “It is not as intoxicating as other alcoholic substances. But it can give you a daylong high if you consume a large quantity. It can also give you a strong hangover,” said Parvesh.

On being asked about the reason of having bhang-mixed sweets or other edibles, Narendra Singh, a resident of Mahendru area, said: “Bhang-flavoured milk shakes is an important part of the celebration. It enhances the festive atmosphere.”

But one must be cautious about consuming it.

“One must know one’s limitations and not have bhang in an unrestrained manner. Also one must be very careful and not mix bhang with alcohol,” said Singh.

Another buyer Maduresh said: “One does not have bhang everyday. It is a part of Holi. It is all good fun and we mean no harm to anyone.”

The cops, however, are going to be strict about the sale of bhang or any other contraband.

“Last week, three people were arrested from Mithapur bus stand for possessing three quintals of bhang,” said a police officer. Checks will continue through Holi.