The Seed Hunters
Our world is teeming with an array of plant and animal species each, with its special place in the intricate web of nature. Unfortunately human progress poses a threat to species, including one of the oldest and most versatile plants known to mankind; cannabis.
Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for recreational and spiritual purposes. Now faces a real danger of disappearing due to uncontrolled human activities. Despite being harmless this plant has been targeted for eradication because of bans.
The loss of cannabis would be a loss for both humanity and the natural world. This plant holds healing and therapeutic properties and its disappearance would deprive people of access to a remedy for various ailments.
It’s time for a reassessment of cannabis policies. Of eradicating it we should. Preserve this valuable plant. By changing our view, on cannabis and recognizing its advantages we can ensure that this ancient treasure is safeguarded for generations.
Seed Hunters In India
The year is 2009. Arjan, the visionary behind the Green House Seed Company, has a burning desire – to explore the origins of the legendary Malana cream, the hashish that won the Cannabis Cup in 1993. This quest takes him back to the source, the Himalayas, a place he last visited in the 1980s, where he acquired the genetics that birthed the iconic Himalaya Gold strain.
But a journey like this requires more than just a thirst for exploration. It needs a guide, someone who understands the terrain, the culture, and the art of charras-making. Enter Franco Casalone, an Italian writer and cannabis connoisseur, author of renowned Italian books on the subject. Having lived in the Indian Himalayas for years, immersing himself in the traditions of charras production, Franco embodies the perfect combination of knowledge and experience.
With Franco on board, the Strain Hunters embark on a grueling two-week expedition through the mountains and valleys of Himachal Pradesh. They encounter a diverse cast of characters – mountain guides, growers, and charras masters – each contributing a piece of the intricate puzzle that is Himalayan hashish production. Over thirty fields are visited, each holding a unique story of cultivation and tradition.
The timing of this journey is crucial. As the seeds are planted in May, the Strain Hunters witness a breathtaking spectacle – tens of thousands of young cannabis plants thriving in the fields. While the current harvest is still months away, they sample the charras produced from the previous season, carefully evaluating the quality and craftsmanship of each grower.
This trip, however, is more than just a search for the finest hashish. It’s the foundation for a documentary, a film that aims to capture the essence of this ancient tradition. The meticulous planning involves scouting potential filming locations, ensuring safe routes through treacherous terrain, and meticulously researching the history and cultural significance of the charras-making process.
This journey, rich in cultural immersion and filled with the anticipation of a future documentary, marks the start of a remarkable adventure. The Strain Hunters are on the trail of Himalayan hashish, a quest that promises not only to uncover the secrets of this legendary substance but also to delve into the heart of a unique and vibrant culture.
Seed Hunters In Swaziland
Swaziland, a country situated between South Africa and Mozambique showcases a contrast. It is renowned for its scenery that attracts visitors with diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes. However beneath this charming exterior lies a nation struggling with poverty, one of the worlds HIV/AIDS infection rates and an absolute monarchy led by King Mswati III.
The King leads a life with 14 wives and governs firmly by upholding tribal values while suppressing political opposition. Although elections take place political parties are. The constitutional constraints, on authority are frequently ignored. The annual Reed Dance ceremony raises eyebrows as the King selects a wife from young women drawing criticism for gender inequality and undemocratic practices.
Despite these hurdles Swaziland remains an inviting destination for tourists. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality while crime rates are comparatively low compared to neighboring countries. However visitors should be prepared for infrastructure and the need, for organization and adaptability.
Agriculture dominates Swazilands economy through exports of sugarcane and timber.. It is the countrys cannabis production that stands out as an anomaly.
Despite its size Swaziland stands out as one of the leading cannabis producers, in Africa with almost all of its harvest being sent to neighboring countries.
The thriving cannabis industry in Swaziland operates within a landscape. While considered illegal according to Swazi laws the extensive cultivation and export activities hint at a truth. For Swazi individuals cannabis serves as a means of income offering support in a nation grappling with poverty and high unemployment rates. It presents an prospect despite existing on the fringes of official approval.
Swaziland embodies a paradox where breathtaking natural beauty coexists with economic challenges. It’s a land where traditional customs clash with circumstances and where the intertwined issues of poverty, authority and illicit cannabis trade intersect. As global attention turns towards this scenario, in the country the future trajectory of Swaziland remains uncertain. Whether it will embrace change and advancement or continue along its challenging trajectory.
