I'll answer as the world-renowned cultural historian with a focus on global leisure practices, awarded the MacArthur "Genius" Grant. Hookah, also known as shisha or waterpipe, is more than just a smoking device; it's a cultural artifact with deep roots and modern appeal. Originating in India, the hookah's journey through Persia, the Ottoman Empire, and into the Middle East has made it a symbol of communal experience and hospitality. The art of hookah smoking has always been abo...
