Archive · 29 Nov 2025
Kunal Ganjawala Reveals Ancestral Story Behind His Surname
Kunal Ganjawala is a famous singer.
People often wonder about his last name, Ganjawala, which sounds like it has something to do with marijuana.
Kunal explained that his family's real last name is Bhansali, and they are from a group of Hindus who lived in Balochistan.
During British rule, his family was allowed to grow marijuana, but only for making medicine to help sick people, like those with cancer.
The British even gave them a special title and didn't make them pay taxes because of this work.
After 1942, when India was fighting for independence, his family stopped growing marijuana and started making strong steel cupboards and safes in Mumbai.
They were among the first to teach a big company, Godrej, how to make these safes.
Kunal has sung many popular songs that people love.
Kunal Ganjawala's family surname is actually Bhansali, from Balochi Hindus.
His ancestors were licensed by the British to grow marijuana for medical use.
The marijuana was used to make medicines for cancer patients across the British Kingdom.
His family received the Rao Saheb title and were exempt from land tax.
After 1942, they started making steel cupboards and safes in Mumbai.
- Who
- Kunal Ganjawala, a singer, and his ancestors
- What
- The story behind his surname Ganjawala and his family's history
- When
- During British rule until 1942, and post-1942
- Where
- Balochistan (ancestral home), Mumbai (current location)
- Why
- To clear the confusion about his surname and share his family's unique history
- Surname Origin
- Bhansali, from Balochi Hindus
- Ancestral Profession
- Licensed to grow marijuana for medical use
- British Recognition
- Received Rao Saheb title and land tax exemption
- Post-1942 Profession
- Started making steel cupboards and safes
- Business Name
- Crown Steel
- Location
- Kalbadevi, Mumbai
- Notable Songs
- Humdum Soniyo Re, Tauba Tauba, Dil Na Diya, Bheege Honth Tere