Every year on May 21, tea enthusiasts and connoisseurs across the globe come together to celebrate International Tea Day. This special day, officially recognised by the United Nations, honours the beloved beverage while highlighting the cultural, social, and economic significance of tea. From the serene tea gardens of Darjeeling to the bustling tea houses in Beijing, tea plays an integral role in the daily lives of millions. This International Tea Day lets explore the history and significance of International Tea Day and explores the unique relationship India shares with this cherished drink.
International Tea Day: History, Significance and Importance; Photo Credit: Pexels
The Origins
International Tea Day was first celebrated in tea-producing countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Uganda, and Tanzania. The day was established to raise awareness about the impact of the global tea trade on workers and growers and to promote fair trade and sustainable practices in the industry. It wasn't until December 2019 that the United Nations officially recognised May 21 as International Tea Day, aiming to celebrate the cultural heritage, health benefits, and economic importance of tea worldwide.
Tea, the second most consumed beverage globally after water, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It is believed to have originated in China around 2737 BCE when Emperor Shen Nong accidentally discovered that boiling water with tea leaves created a pleasant and refreshing drink. Since then, tea has travelled across continents, evolving into numerous varieties and flavours, each with its own distinct characteristics and cultural significance.
This year, International Tea Day highlights women and their role in the tea sector*. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the cultural heritage, health benefits and economic importance of tea, while working to make its production sustainable “from field to cup” ensuring its benefits for people, cultures and the environment continue for generations.
The Global Significance
Tea is more than just a beverage; it is a symbol of hospitality, tradition, and social interaction. In Japan, the tea ceremony, or Chanoyu, is a practice that embodies harmony, respect, and purity. In the United Kingdom, afternoon tea is a cherished custom that has been part of British culture since the 19th century. In Morocco, sweet mint tea, or atay, is a sign of hospitality and is traditionally served three times to guests, each with its own meaning.
Economically, the tea industry is a vital part of the agricultural sector in many developing countries. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), global tea production in 2022 reached approximately 6.7 million tonnes, with China, India, Kenya and Sri Lanka being the top producers**. The industry employs millions of people, particularly women, who make up the majority of the workforce in tea plantations.
India: A Land of Tea Lovers
India holds a special place in the world of tea. As the second-largest producer and consumer of tea, the country has a deep-rooted connection with this aromatic beverage. Tea was introduced to India by the British in the 19th century, who reportedly sought to break China's monopoly on tea production. The British established vast tea plantations in regions like Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri, which are now renowned for their high-quality teas.
The Cultural Impact
In India, tea is more than just a drink; it is an integral part of the culture and daily life. From the ubiquitous chaiwala (tea vendor) found on every street corner to the elaborate tea rituals in Indian households, tea is deeply woven into the social fabric of the nation. A typical Indian chai, made by boiling tea leaves with milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom and ginger, is a comfort drink that brings people together, whether it's in bustling markets or quiet rural villages.
Celebrating Tea
International Tea Day serves as a reminder of the rich history, cultural significance, and economic importance of tea. It encourages tea drinkers around the world to appreciate not just the flavours in their cups but also the efforts of those who cultivate and process this beloved beverage. In India, the day is celebrated with various events, including tea-tasting sessions, cultural performances, and discussions on sustainable tea production.
As we sip our tea, whether it's a delicate Darjeeling, a robust Assam, or a spicy masala chai, let us remember the journey of these leaves from the plantations to our cups. Let us honour the traditions and labour behind each brew and support initiatives that promote fair trade and sustainability in the tea industry.
So, on this International Tea Day, raise your cup in celebration and savour the timeless allure of tea, a drink that continues to unite cultures and generations across the globe.
Here are few specially crafted teas that you can buy from Amazon for your very own tea soiree at home.
1. Miduty by Palak Notes Matcha Tea
This matcha tea is a beverage teeming with 137 times more catechins than regular green tea, providing a robust antioxidant boost. This matcha marvel supports liver health by potentially preventing liver damage and lowering the risk of liver disease. Experience the health benefits and rich flavour of Miduty Matcha Tea by purchasing it on Amazon.
2. Okayti Moonlight Darjeeling First Flush Tea
This pack comprises only the freshest first leaf and bud, processed in small, exclusive batches. Immerse yourself in its floral aroma with fruity notes of berries, and savour its light and bright lemon-yellow infusion. The taste is a delightful blend of floral notes, the sweetness of wild berries, and a hint of honeydew.
3. Blue Tea: Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is a natural stress reliever rich in antioxidants. This tea, made from sun-dried Butterfly Pea Flowers and packed loose, offers a tranquil escape after a long day, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. Perfect as a bedtime tea, it can be enjoyed alone or with loved ones, making your evenings serene and restful.
4. Surajmukhi Tea Gold Standard Darjeeling Silver Needles White Tea
Darjeeling Silver Needles is one of the rarest teas in the world, meticulously gathered for only a few days in early spring. This exquisite white tea, adorned with silver tips, is not just a treat for the senses but a powerhouse of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, Darjeeling Silver Needles helps boost your immune system, promotes healthy digestion, and alleviates stomach acidity and heartburn. Buy it now on Amazon.
5. Newby Jasmine Blossom Green Tea
Crafted with the highest quality ingredients, Newby's Jasmine Blossom combines the finest green tea leaves with the enchanting scent of jasmine, creating a tea that is as beneficial as it is delightful. The calming aroma of jasmine has a soothing effect on the autonomous nervous system, helping to regulate breathing, heart rate, and digestion, making it a perfect choice for moments of relaxation and stress relief.
6. Octavius: Assortment of 3 Black Loose Leaf Teas
This collection features garden-fresh natural loose leaf black teas, perfect for tea connoisseurs and lovers alike. Each tea variety is carefully selected to offer a unique and mesmerising flavour, aroma, and taste, bringing the rich heritage of Indian tea to your cup.
7. Matero Yerba Mate Tea
Yerba Mate, made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, is renowned for being one of the healthiest caffeinated beverages, offering a natural boost in focus and attention along with clean, sustained energy. But this on Amazon today.
8. VAHDAM: 12 Teas In Luxury Tea Gift Box
This exquisite assortment features a selection of Black, Green, Oolong, Chai, and Herbal Teas, each offering a unique and delightful experience for tea enthusiasts. From the robust Assam Exotic and Roasted Darjeeling Black Tea to the zesty Lemon Ginger Green Tea and invigorating Turmeric Tulsi Herbal Tea, the Bloom Gift Set promises a captivating range of flavours to tantalise your taste buds.
9. Girnar Detox Desi Kahwa Green
Enjoy a harmonious blend of tradition and wellness crafted to cleanse and revitalise your body and mind. Inspired by the centuries-old recipe of traditional Indian Kahwa, this detoxifying tea combines the finest handpicked ingredients with modern wellness principles to create a truly invigorating brew.
10. EkakiVedam - Violet Vigyor Tea
Derived from the rare purple tea plant, native to the misty highlands of Kenya, Violet Vigyor Tea offers a delightful fusion of flavour and health benefits. Each sip is a symphony of floral notes, complemented by hints of fruitiness and a subtle earthy undertone, resulting in a truly indulgent tea experience.
As we raise our cups to commemorate International Tea Day, let us celebrate the rich history and its significance in cultures in India and worldwide. From the misty hills of Darjeeling to the bustling streets of Mumbai, tea has woven itself into the fabric of Indian society, becoming more than just a beverage but a symbol of unity, tradition, and hospitality. Bring home some history today, shop now from Amazon.
* United Nations: International Tea Day [Read Here]
** FAO: International Tea Day [Read Here]