Chillum

In the traditional context, smoking a chillum is a ritual act. The Sadhu fills the pipe with a mix of charas and tobacco, covers the wide end with a cloth (safi) held in a cupped hand to cool the smoke, and chants Boom Shankar or Alakh before lighting. The chillum is never touched to the lips directly; instead, smoke is drawn through the cupped hands. It is typically shared in a circle, passed from person to person, with the eldest or most senior member taking the first draw. This ritualistic aspect elevates the chillum from a simple pipe to a spiritual tool.

In contemporary cannabis culture, chillums have been adapted as compact, portable hand pipes. Modern versions are typically smaller than traditional ones and made from glass, stone, or ceramic. They offer a quick, simple way to smoke a small amount of cannabis without the setup required for a bong or the preparation needed for a joint. Glass chillums are particularly popular for their clean flavor and easy cleaning. While modern usage is casual rather than ceremonial, the chillum's ancient heritage gives it a distinctive cultural depth.