Ganja Offering Reel Filmed in Shiva Temple, CP Sajjanar Warns Youth of NDPS Charges

Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar has strongly condemned a disturbing social media stunt in which two youths allegedly filmed a reel offering ganja (cannabis) as a ritual offering inside a Shiva temple during Maha Shivaratri , one of Hinduism’s most sacred festivals.

According to police, the video was recorded on Sunday near a Shiva temple in the Shamshabad area. In the reel, the youths claim they came to offer prayers and remark that while devotees usually present coconuts as offerings, they were doing something “different.” One individual is seen holding a suspected narcotic substance and mimicking its offering to the Shiva Lingam. After the video was posted online, it sparked public outrage and calls for police action.

Reacting on X (formerly Twitter), Sajjanar questioned whether individuals would stoop to any level for online fame. He stressed that Maha Shivaratri symbolizes devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual awakening, and portraying intoxicants as sacred offerings on such an occasion reflects “perverse behaviour” and disrespect toward religious sentiments.

The Commissioner warned that the act constitutes a serious criminal offence , especially if prosecuted under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act , which carries stringent penalties including imprisonment. He cautioned youth not to sacrifice their futures for fleeting social media popularity and urged them to use digital platforms responsibly and creatively.

Police stated that such acts not only promote substance abuse but also risk disturbing communal harmony and hurting religious sentiments. The Hyderabad Narcotics Enforcement Wing (H-NEW) has taken up the case and is working to identify those involved. Strict legal action is expected once the suspects are traced.

Authorities reiterated that objectionable content created for viral attention will not be tolerated. With social media increasingly influencing youth behaviour, officials stressed the need for digital responsibility and warned that glorifying drugs or insulting religious practices can invite severe legal consequences.