Chilla (,, both literally "forty"), also known as Chilla-nashini, is a spiritual practice of penance and solitude in Sufism known mostly in Indian and Persian traditions. In this ritual a mendicant or ascetic attempts to remain seated in a circle practicing meditation techniques without food for 40 days and nights in imitation of the Arba'een.

Etymology

The word chilla is derived from the Persian word chehel "forty".

Chilla-khana

Chilla is commonly performed in a solitary cell called a chilla-khana. The place itself is sometimes called Chilla where chilla has been performed.

Incidents of Chilla

The most famous case of chilla is found in the biographies of the 14th century Sufi poet Hafez of Shiraz.

In music

A practice similar to chilla is also performed by Hindustani classical music practitioners at an advanced level. It is called chilla katna.