抄録
Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.), commonly known as “ganja” in South Asia, holds a rich history in Naogaon, Bangladesh, where its cultivation was legally permitted until 1987. This study explores the ethnobotanical aspects and folk customs associated with cannabis in Naogaon, shedding light on the unique vernacular names, utilization practices, and cultural significance attributed to the plant. Through interviews with experienced farmers, the study documents the diverse uses of cannabis, including seed processing for oil, medicinal applications, and the production of drugs from female flower buds. The research unveils a plethora of folk customs, such as songs sung during cannabis processing, the involvement of Santal women in ganja production, the role of “ganja doctors,” proverbs conveying societal perspectives, and folklore narrating the integration of cannabis into daily life. The study emphasizes the importance of preserving this cultural knowledge, especially as the last generation of farmers with direct experience in cannabis cultivation ages. The findings contribute valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and economic dimensions of cannabis in the Ganja Mahal region, providing a comprehensive understanding of its impact on the community’s way of life.
