Cinema VinesIndian pop singer Kunal Ganjawala has opened up about the origins of his family name, revealing that his ancestors were involved in the cultivation of marijuana for medicinal use during the British Raj. In a recent interview with Dubai‑based radio personality Parikshit Balochi, the singer explained that his forebears grew ganja before 1942 and supplied the produce to the colonial government, which granted them tax exemptions and the title Rao Saheb. According to Ganjawala, the family’s work was officially licensed and recognised as part of the British administration’s medical supply chain, producing opium‑based injections for cancer patients.
Ganjawala said the practice ended around the time of the Quit India Movement, a period when the British began to tighten control over such activities. He added that, despite the legitimate nature of the work, the surname “Ganjawala” has long been a source of teasing. People often joke that he sells drugs, prompting him to clarify that he neither smokes nor deals in any substances. “People would joke, ‘Oh, ganjewala, do you have goods?’ And I would clarify that I neither smoke nor partake in such substances,” he laughed.
Beyond the family history, the singer disclosed that he belongs to the Balochi Hindu community, adding another layer to his cultural background. Ganjawala has been active in the music scene for several years, releasing tracks in multiple Indian languages. His recent catalog includes 2026 releases such as “Ram Sita Ram” and “Divas Tujhe He Phulayache,” as well as a string of 2025 songs like “Sukh Aale” from Gaurishankar, “O Jane Jaan” from Jhor, “Hariye Jai” from Bahurup, “Yeh Zammen Yeh Aasman” featuring Suzanne D’Mello, “Abba Entha Hudugi” from Rona, “Majhi Jaanu” with Sonali Sonawane, and “Thank You Dugga Maa” with Mitali Roy.
