HomeBREAKING NEWSOdisha Government Bans Ganja in Shiva Temple

Odisha Government Bans Ganja in Shiva Temple

Published on

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has banned the consumption of ganja in all Shiva shrines throughout the state. “Excessive use of ganja in the name of Lord Shiva is polluting the religious spirit,” the order states.

Buy Now: MediBuddy | Mamaearth |Myntra

An order has been issued prohibiting the use of illegal substances in Shiva seats. In this regard, the Department of Odia Language Literature and Culture has written to the District Collectors and SPs. The agency directed officials to take the appropriate procedures to prohibit the use of ganjai in all Shiva seats.

Dillip Routray, Director of the Odia Language Literature and Culture Department, has written to District Magistrates and SPs in response to Padmashri Baba Balia’s request to the Government. The government’s approach, on the other hand, elicited a divided reaction. Some applauded it, but others saw it as a blow to an age-old custom.

In response to the judgement, Baba Balia stated that the crackdown on cannabis use in Shiva Shrines is a welcome step. Humans become addicted to such intoxicants. It is the cause of various diseases. Boys and girls are now consuming marijuana, which is bad for their health. Ganja, he claims, shortens one’s life span.

“I had written to the Government of India and Odisha requesting that ganja be prohibited in Shiva temples.” “I am very happy that the Odisha government has done it,” Baba Balia stated.

“I welcome the decision to ban Ganja at Shiva seats,” Culture Minister Ashwini Patra stated. Intoxication is not permitted in any temple. Not just Shiva temples, but also other sacred sites, should prohibit the usage of intoxicants.”

Congress leader Suresh Routray, condemning the move, said, “A complete ban isn’t right as ganja is used in ‘bhog’ of Lord Shiva.”

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Trending Searches Today | Odisha Government Bans Ganja in Shiva Temple

Share Market

Sensex Falls 1342 Points as Broad Selloff Hits Indian Stock Market

Sensex falls 1342 points and Nifty drops below 23870 amid broad market selling. Over 180 stocks hit 52 week lows. Read full market update.

Sensex crash today March 9 2026 as crude oil surge rattles markets

Sensex crash today: Markets fall as crude crosses $100 amid Middle East tensions. See Nifty levels and sector impact.

More like this

World Water Day 2026 Odisha: ₹2612 Crore Projects Launched to Boost Water Security

Odisha launches ₹2612 crore water projects on World Water Day 2026. Focus on irrigation, conservation and clean water. Read more.

March 22, 2026 Daily Horoscope: Balance, Awareness and Smart Choices

March 22, 2026 daily horoscope reveals love, money and career insights. Discover what your zodiac sign predicts today.