Changes within lifestyle in India have resulted in a shift in consumer patterns for herbal enthusiasts. Rolling papers play a crucial role in improving purity and burning speed. Earlier, international companies were at the forefront of meeting consumer demands. Now, there are quality alternatives from India.
Making the right selection of paper requires an understanding of how given aspects, such as GSM, influence the paper's thickness and burn rate This guide focuses on the top Indian brands, the surrounding rolling papers, and the technical specifications of superior papers over the usual papers.
Indian Rolling Paper Brands
The Indian market is currently a mix of legacy international giants and innovative homegrown startups. Each brand brings a unique philosophy, from ultra thin rice papers to robust organic hemp variants.
OCB
OCB is one of the most recognized brands for rolling papers in India. This brand was established in France and continues to be distributed all across the country for its standardized quality. The flagship brand from this company includes OCB Premium (Black Pack) Rolling Paper; it’s very thin and almost tasteless, allowing the herbs to be in the forefront, and OCB Virgin (Brown Pack) Rolling Paper.
RAW
RAW papers enjoy status both internationally and within India because of the vision. Unlike other papers, which are made from either chalk or dyes that are applied with a conventional rub on watermark, RAW uses unbleached plant fibers. Their papers include a unique crisscross rub on watermark that prevents "running" of light and dark areas. The RAW Classic and RAW Organic Hemp papers are a favorite with many.
smooth mix
“The idea at smoothmix is that the habit itself is pure. That’s why we believe the rolling paper is a very delicate holder that should enhance, but never take away from, the natural quality of what it contains.”
While this idea may not directly relate to rolling papers, it clearly reflects a belief in letting nature work naturally. This rolling paper brand focuses on offering a nearly invisible paper that does not interfere with the experience but instead supports it by placing more emphasis on organic rolling and smoking methods.
To achieve this, they look to produce rolling papers with very thin, organic fibers that possess excellent burning traits. The idea of this brand of rolling papers is to reach an understanding with nature and to bring people closer to nature, rather than trying to defy its very nature.
Bongchie
Bongchie is a well known Indian brand from Delhi, which has taken the home scene to a whole new level since 2014. Generally, the brand is known for its Pre Rolled Cones, which are extremely convenient. Bongchie focuses on quality and accessibility; hence, their product line includes the "Mozo" and "Perfect Roll" series.
Their papers are made in such a way that they bear the humid Indian weather nicely and don't get torn out as easily as some thinner international variants do, hence being more reliable for daily use.
Kaagazz
Kaagazz is another notable Indian player focusing on the premium segment. They emphasize the craftsmanship of the paper, often utilizing high quality hemp and rice blends. Their branding leans into the "Made in India" sentiment, with a focus on manufacturing processes that avoid chlorine bleaching, according to brand disclosures, and aim for a slow, steady burn.
3DP Papers
3DP Papers has carved a niche by offering unique, often aesthetically pleasing designs and high functionality kits. They are popular for their connoisseur packs, which include filter tips and integrated trays. Their focus is on the total experience of preparation, ensuring that the paper quality matches the luxury feel of their packaging.
What Is The Oldest Rolling Paper Brand?
Looking back at the history of rolling papers gives an understanding of why some brands enjoy such a high reputation of trust to this day. Pay Pay is credited with having the oldest existing brand and was established in Spain in 1703. More than 300 years of brand influence saw this company produce rolling papers from wood pulp to higher quality materials.
The next legendary brand is Rizla+. The Lacroix family was producing paper from 1660 onwards; however, the “Rizla” brand was only trademarked much later. These are important because these brands have managed to create the “gold standard” quality of paper thickness and gum adhesion.
For newbies in this market, the fact that these brands have managed to survive over the centuries is a guarantee of quality as far as safety is concerned; the art of creating papers free from heavy metals and chemicals has been honed by these establishments.
Is Rolling Paper Legal In India?
The legality of rolling papers in India is a point of confusion, but the law is quite clear. Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, a distinction is made between "narcotic substances" and "accessories."
Rolling paper would fall under the category of smoking accessories. It is an inert product made of paper and natural gum, much like stationery or tissue paper. Thus, the manufacture, sale, and possession of empty rolling papers are totally legal throughout India. The legality of the act depends entirely on what substance is being rolled.
However, users should be aware of state level enforcement. While the central law permits these accessories, certain states with strict "smoke free" policies or temporary local restrictions might occasionally inspect shops selling these items. It is always advisable to use these products responsibly and in accordance with the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), which regulates smoking in public.
Is OCB Better Than RAW And How Do These Brands Compare?
The "OCB vs. RAW" debate is the most common discussion among Indian buyers. Both brands offer high quality products, but they cater to different preferences:
The rolling papers by OCB, ranging from Regular to Premium and Virgin, are usually made from flax or wood pulp; in fact, the Virgin one is unbleached. The brand is famous for having an extremely slow and even burn rate, as well as a very smooth and crispy texture and the addition of natural acacia gum. The taste is clean and pure. This way, the contents will be unaffected.
RAW rolling papers, in their Classic and Organic types, use unbleached plant fibers or hemp. These papers burn slowly in conjunction with a watermark, allowing them to burn slowly, and contain a slightly textured, grippy feel with natural hemp based gum. Indeed, the rolling papers contain a natural, earthy flavor in comparison with OCB papers.
Indian buyers frequently compare these two because they are the benchmarks for authenticity. OCB is often praised for its "crispness," which makes it easier to handle for some, while RAW is the go to for those who prioritize a chemical free, eco conscious lifestyle. Ultimately, "better" is subjective; if you want a paper that disappears into the background, OCB Premium is excellent. If you want a more tactile, natural experience, RAW is the winner.
Which GSM Is Better For Rolling Papers And How Does Thickness Affect Smoking?
GSM (Grams per Square Metre) is the metric used to measure the weight and thickness of the paper. In the world of rolling, GSM is the most important technical factor.
Low GSM (10–13 GSM): These are ultra thin papers. They are preferred by experienced users because they contain less paper material,“leading to reduced paper combustion, which some users prefer for taste and burn control. However, they are fragile and can be difficult for beginners to roll.
Medium GSM (14–18 GSM): Majorly known as “Green,” these papers have the right amount of balance so they can handle herbs easily but are also thin enough to not overpower the herbs.
High GSM (19+ GSM): Often thick, similar to traditional ones, so they burn faster and are easy to roll and easy for beginners to use. It is further reflected in burn rates, with thinner papers being harder to burn, while a thicker paper has more "fuel" (cellulose) in it, hence will continually burn. In cigars, a lower weight is almost essential in order to have the botanical terpenes unaffected by the paper burn taste.
Can I Travel Or Fly With Rolling Papers In India And Abroad?
Yes, you can generally travel with rolling papers. Since they are a legal consumer product, they do not violate the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) guidelines in India.
Domestic flights have no restrictions for blank rolling papers in both carry on and checked bags. Although security personnel may question travelers about these papers during the X-ray examination, as long as there are no banned substances inside, there are no legal justifications for confiscated items.
International Flights treat rolling papers as standard stationery or tobacco accessories. However, always check the local laws of your destination (e.g, some Middle Eastern countries have very strict views on any paraphernalia).
Security Assessment can also be judged by the use of "set and setting.” A single pack of documents is not likely to pose any problem. A pack of a commercial quantity without a corresponding business license may raise issues with relation to customs and duty.
Are There Fake Rolling Papers And How Can Buyers Verify Authenticity?
Counterfeit products are a major issue in the Indian market, especially for popular brands like RAW and OCB. Fake papers often use industrial glues, bleached paper with high chlorine content, or even traces of heavy metals, which may alter combustion byproducts when heated, according to general combustion research.
How to verify authenticity:
- The Burn Test: Real high quality papers will leave very little ash. If it is leaving a thick, dark, or gray residue, it probably is laced with chalk or bleach.
- Watermark: Hold the paper up to the light. Genuine RAW papers will have a very noticeable, sharp HBI crossing watermark. Copies will have blurred or printer printed watermarks
- The Gum Line: Genuine currency is made with natural gum. If the gum is not adhesive or gives off a chemical smell, it is probably fake money
- Packaging Detail: Spelling mistakes need to be checked for. Fakes will always contain tiny mistakes in spelling or different font sizes.
Which State In India Is Smoke Free And What Does That Mean For Smokers?
In India, several states and cities have been declared "smoke free," but this term is often misunderstood. It does not mean a total ban on smoking; rather, it refers to the strict implementation of Section 4 of COTPA, which prohibits smoking in public places.
States like Sikkim, Kerala, and various districts in Himachal Pradesh (like Shimla) are known for very strict enforcement. In these areas:
- Smoking in parks, bus stands, and government buildings is strictly penalized.
- Restaurants must have a physically separated, ventilated smoking zone to allow the practice.
- For users of rolling papers, this means that while the act of rolling is legal, the act of using the product must be confined to private spaces or designated areas. Being "smoke free" signifies a commitment to protecting non smokers from secondhand exposure, according to public health research published by institutions like the Indian Council of Medical Research.
