Hookah goes by many other names, including shisha, nargileh, or kalian. It is the process of adults smoking flavored tobacco through a water pipe with hoses to share the puff with friends and family. It was used as a way of promoting relations and interconnectedness among participants. It is one of the cultural practices rooted in the heart of many communities in Peria, India, Egypt, Turkey, and the Middle East. It was centered around conversations and was a social activity meant to help people relax and unwind.
Understanding the History
We shall look at the history of Hookah in terms of centuries.
- 16th Century
This was when the first modern Hookah was first seen in India. An Indian company manufactured it when smoking tobacco was popular among the noblemen. The invention was born through an attempt to smoke through water held in a glass base. Several alterations were made to the classic Hookah to improve its efficiency.
- 17th Century
In the 17th century, the Pewrisna community had a strong culture of using strong dark-leaved tobacco. The original Hookah was redefined to improve its aesthetics and introduce motion. At this time, the Hookah became available outside nobility circles.
- 18th Century
Shisha or Hookah moved to Turkey and became part of the culture there. It continued to see more innovations, and now blacksmiths made designs from brass. Their innovations influenced the design of the Hookah as we know it today. This kind of Hookah was smoked in diplomatic and royal meetings and held in high esteem, especially when visitors came.
- 19th Century
This saw the Hookah migrate to the Middle East. It also found its way to Egypt, where tobacco was mixed with molasses or honey for better flavor. Other flavors from fruits were also introduced over time. This then changed the history of Hookah completely.
- 20th Century
This century marked the widespread use of Hookah in many cultures across the globe. Other countries embraced them and continued to introduce variations. This saw the introduction of the hose as part of the design.
- 21st Century
This was the century that Hookah found its way into America. Manufacturers found ways to improve the product quality and offer more variety than what was traditionally known. This is why there are several options depending on one’s preference.
Now that you appreciate how far hookahs have come, you may want to take time to identify one that p[erfectly matches your style. Consider visiting the Smoke Alley Shop in Houston, TX, for variety. You will be amazed at the improvements that have happened over the years.