The word “Hookah” is actually an Arabic word. The originators of the hookah water pipe we all know and love actually called it “Nārikela,” which is the Sanskirt word for coconut. The water pipe received this name because the northern Indians, who created it, originally fashioned the pipe from coconuts. Today the pipe has several names depending on its geographic location, but is commonly referred to as “Huqqa,” in modern India.

Even though hookahs had their start in India, they did not remain a favored pastime there. In fact, until recently, the practice of smoking hookahs died off for the country. A lounge opened in Indore, India by the name of Mr. Beans, named for its coffee beans, and re-popularized the tradition. Because of Mr. Beans’ success, other lounges have popped up all around the metropolis. Like any other country, lounges/bars seem to follow the universities. A large chunk of the hookah smoking demographic appears to correspond with college students. As a result where there’s a university there will normally be a hookah lounge, no matter which country you are in.

India is a major provider in the world-wide tobacco industry, so it’s no surprise that India currently produces shisha as well – including well known Soex (the herbal, non-tobacco, blend of shisha) and Afzal. However, with the return of the ancient tradition, also comes increased manufacturing, importing, and exporting of hookahs. Currently, India manufactures hookahs, but most are brass and serve more for decorative and ceremonial purposes as their functionality is limited. However, India is beginning to manufacture more glass based hookahs, and also currently imports hookahs from Egypt and China, among other countries.

As India continues to modernize itself, and work its way into the forefront of the world arena, it will also naturally pick up sophisticated trends. Hookah smoking was such a trend after being banned briefly in Dubai. In addition, the concept of luxury is very closely linked to relaxation. Today, when it seems that although technology has made our world smaller, and more efficient, it has also sped up time. In such a work centered world, people are famished for relaxation. Dr Karimi of the Sufi restaurant, in India, says: “Hookahs spell comfort, relaxation and ease, the opposite of today's rushed existence. It takes over half an hour to smoke. People relax with the hookah, play backgammon or chess, and chat.”