"High on God: Drugs, Ritual, and Altered States in Ancient India"

"High on God: Drugs, Ritual, and Altered States in Ancient India"
With Riya Sarkar and Aditi Angiras

Summary
Long before modern therapy, psychedelics or wellness retreats, the Indian subcontinent had developed substances and rituals that could soothe the body, heighten perception, and bring human beings closer to the divine. In the Vedic world, priests brewed and praised Soma: a mysterious ritual drink offered to the gods and consumed in search of exaltation, power and insight. Cannabis appears in later Sanskrit traditions as a substance linked to pleasure and to Lord Shiva himself.

In this talk, we will trace the blurred boundaries between Tantra, medicine and alchemy, where altered states were not treated as vice, but as portals to revelation, healing and ecstasy. Along the way, we will also meet the scholars and orientalists who left us not just translations, but myths and hallucinations of their own.

Venue:
The George Tavern
373 Commercial Rd
Stepney Green
E1 0LA


Event Running Time:
Doors from 1pm
Introduction: 1:30pm
Lecture: 1:35pm
Q&A: 2:15pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

There are bar snacks available at The George Tavern

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet friendly?

Yes, we allow pets to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.