Commonly known as hookah or water pipes, bongs have been used for smoking tobacco and other substances for centuries in India and across the world. The exact origin of the bong is not entirely clear, but evidence points to similar devices having originated in Asia thousands of years ago.

The Earliest Bongs

The earliest bongs were made from bamboo, ceramic, wood, and gourds. Simple and aesthetic in design, they functioned by allowing smoke to be drawn through a long tube — often with water acting as a filter and base to cool and smoothen the smoke.

The earliest known bongs were found in Ethiopia and date back to around 1100 BCE. These were made from animal horns and used to smoke cannabis and other herbs. Bongs were also used by the Scythians, a nomadic tribe from Central Asia, who used them to smoke opium and cannabis.

Bongs Across Ancient Civilisations

In China, bongs were used during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). In India, they were known as “hookahs” and were used for smoking tobacco and cannabis — gaining popularity during the Mughal Empire (1526–1857) among royalty and the elite.

Over time, bongs became more elaborate and decorative. In the Middle East, they were often made from brass or other metals and adorned with intricate designs and engravings. In Africa, bongs were carved from wood and often featured animal or human motifs.

In the 16th century, European explorers introduced tobacco to the Americas, and bong use began to spread throughout the continent. Native Americans developed their own clay bongs decorated with intricate designs — considered an important part of tribal ceremonies.

The Modern Era

In the 1960s and 1970s, bongs gained popularity in the United States as part of the counterculture movement, becoming associated with hippie culture and cannabis use.

Today, bongs are widely used for smoking tobacco and herbs, and countless styles and designs are available — from glass and acrylic to silicone. They range from small and portable to large and elaborate, with multiple chambers and intricate designs.

While regulations vary by country, bongs are widely valued for their ability to cool and filter smoke, making for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

Why Bongs Endure

Despite their long history, the appeal of bongs hasn't faded. Whether it's a classic straight tube, a percolator, or a handcrafted glass piece — the bong remains a centrepiece of smoking culture worldwide. At TBBC, we carry on that tradition with premium borosilicate glass bongs built for smooth hits and long-lasting quality.

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