History of Hookah

The Hookah, commonly referred to as "Shisha" or "Nargila" in Arab countries, first originated in India. A common misconception about hookah is that it was invented by Arabs and was distributed to other regions. However, the Indians conceived this single or multi-stemmed water pipe, and through the British colonization of India, it was distributed throughout Western countries.  

Hookah has, since long ago, been a recreational pastime for many in Middle Eastern Countries. Its popularity has recently caught on in many Western countries, with the opening of Hookah Lounges and the distribution of Hookah parts gaining steam anywhere from the UK to the USA.  

The first  hookahs  were unlike those of modern-day smoking aficionados. Extremely primitive in design, function was the only aspect taken into consideration. Hookahs were often Coconut shells attached to a wooden pipe, and were primarily used to smoke opium or hashish. As popularity for this newfound activity grew, hookah fever spread throughout the entire Persian Kingdom, anywhere from modern-day North Africa, all the way to the Middle-East and parts of Asia. The global consensus for the demand of hookah grew exponentially, becoming a staple of daily life.  

Hookah proceeded to take its own variation in different regions. In Iran, the use of tobacco became popular.  Hookah tobacco  is unlike cigarette tobacco, with its distinct sweet smell and wet, sticky texture. Iranians use this tobacco inside the bowl for the hookah, and place smoldering coals directly above the tobacco, with no foil or cover for the bowl. This form of hookah is referred to as "Ghelyoon."  

With the advent of Hookah in Turkey, socialites and intellectuals decided that the style of the Hookah must match that of their opulent lifestyle. Metals and glass were introduced as primary components of Hookah structure, while wood became less and less popular. Extravagant designs on Hookahs became popular, and multi-stemmed Hookahs were conveyed as a way to allow more people to smoke at a time.  

From the mountain enclaves of Pakistan, to the lavish extravagance of Turkish aristocracy, and now to nearly every American college town, Hookah has turned into one of the most beloved recreational activities of our time. Transcending cultures and religion, it was created in order to allow people a time of relaxed conversation and discussion. It is now a daily norm that is appreciated by all, regardless of which side of the wall they live on. For more information, check out  HookahGenie.com  for all your Hookah resources and supplies.