Hinduism: The world's oldest religion

Hinduism differs from Christianity and other Western religions in that it does not have a single founder, a specific theological system, a single system of morality, or a central religious organization. It consists of "thousands of different religious groups that have evolved in India since 1500 BCE

Hinduism is generally regarded as the world's oldest organized religion.
Most forms of Hinduism are henotheistic religions. They recognize a single deity, and view other Gods and Goddesses as manifestations or aspects of that supreme God. Henotheistic and polytheistic religions have traditionally been among the world's most religiously tolerant faiths.

No civilisation anywhere in the world, with the probable exception of China, has been as continuous as that of India. While the civilisations of Egypt, Babylon and Assyria have disappeared, in India the ideas emanating from the Vedic times continue to be a living force.

.......now he packs his chillum, a ritual in its own right. Sadhus are unmaterialistic, but a chillum often figures prominently among their few possessions. Sadhus who follow Shiva are the most likely sadhus to make frequent use of the chillum. It's an integral part of a sadhu's daily ritual, a ritual based on his spirituality and devotion; the chillum seems to be one form of his worship. He starts with a chunk of hash, sometimes given as an offering to his temple.
He mixes the marijuana or hash with tobacco. He then adds a few drops of water and mashes the mixture in the palm of his hand. He places the mixture in the bowl of the chillum, which contains a small stone that functions as a screen, then tears off a small square of material from an old piece of clothing, frequently one he is wearing, to use as a filter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuSMq...eature=related

local indian villagers smoking charas

Sadhu

Associated with Lord Shiva, bhang has now become synonymous with holi. To the extent that bhang drinks have now become an official Holi drink.
Culled from the leaves and buds of cannabis - the very intoxicating bhang helps to escalate the spirit of holi - a festival which does not recognise any restrictions. Lip smacking thandai, pakoras and vadas, all having bhang as a very essential ingredient, are savoured by all on the day.

A Brief History of Bhang
Bhang was first used as an intoxicant in India around 1000 BC and soon became an integral part of Hindu culture. In the ancient text Artharvaveda, Bhang is described as a beneficial herb that "releases anxiety". Bhang preparations were sacred to Gods, particularly Shiva. One of Shiva's epithets was "Lord of Bhang" as he is said to have discovered the transcendental properties of the mixture.
In imitation of Shiva, many sadhus use Bhang to boost meditation and achieve transcendental states. Besides, Bhang or cannabis is also believed to be popular amongst Sufis as an aid to spiritual ecstasy since a long time.

Bond with the Bhang
Ancient as it is, bhang has become a inseparable part of Indian tradition. So much so that it has become symbolic for a lot of things. They might be, or rather they are, pure superstitious believes. But if one understands the inherent sentimental and emotional nature of Indians, one can very easily feel the emotional bond people have with bhang.
Associated with Lord Shiva, hemp plant is regarded holy by the Hindus. There is even a belief that to meet someone carrying bhang is an omen of success. And, if longing for hemp plant foretells happiness, to see it in dreams ensures prosperity for a person in future. Also, walking underfoot a holy bhang leaf spells doom for a person.
People also strongly believe in the medicinal properties of the hemp plant. If taken in proper quantity bhang cures fever, dysentery and sunstroke. It helps to clear phlegm, quicken digestion, sharpen appetite, cure speak imperfection and lispering. Besides, it freshens the intellect and gives alertness to the body and gaiety to the mind.

the indian word "Dharma" infact means ones moral duty.

Its interesting about chillums, does Shiva smoke it?

Something a little older

http://www.afrol.com/articles/23093

go chillums go - I barely ever smoke my bong or pipe anymore. I'm sure it's due to the novelty of having a chillum but still