In India, chai isn't just a beverage—it's an emotion. Whether it's a calming cup of green tea to kickstart a healthy morning or a strong, sweet brew to unwind after a long day, tea fits into every mood and moment. From office breaks we fondly call "tea breaks", to prepping for grand celebrations at home, tea is always there, by our side, with pen and paper, conversations, and comfort. An Indian kitchen without tea leaves? Unthinkable! You might run out of atta, but you'll never skip your chai time.

Origins and Purpose of International Tea Day

Tea, one of the world’s most cherished beverages, has long transcended its role as a simple drink, becoming a symbol of cultural heritage, economic sustenance, and social bonding across continents. Recognizing this global importance, the United Nations officially declared May 21 as International Tea Day, with the first official observance beginning in 2020. The resolution to commemorate this day was adopted on December 21, 2019, entrusting the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN with the responsibility of leading its global celebrations.

The primary objective of International Tea Day is to raise awareness about tea’s deep cultural and economic significance, particularly in the livelihoods of people working across the tea value chain—from growers and pluckers to traders and exporters.

Interestingly, even before the UN's declaration, tea-producing countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Indonesia, Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi had been observing their version of International Tea Day on December 15 since 2005. These early observances were focused on bringing global attention to the struggles of tea workers and small-scale growers and were often linked to campaigns for fair trade practices, price support, and better working conditions in the industry.

Today, International Tea Day stands not only as a celebration of the beverage itself but also as a call to action—to support sustainable agricultural practices, fairer trade, and the empowerment of millions of people, especially in developing countries, who rely on tea for their livelihoods.

Whether it's a ritualistic matcha ceremony in Japan, a bustling chai tapri in India, or a quiet afternoon tea in Britain, tea continues to unite people across cultures and economies. And as we sip our favourite brew on this day, we’re reminded of the human stories behind every leaf.

Japan: Art of the Tea Ceremony

In Japan, tea transcends mere consumption; it embodies a spiritual and philosophical practice known as chanoyu or sado, meaning "the way of tea." This ceremonial preparation of matcha (powdered green tea) is deeply rooted in Zen Buddhism and emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity.​

The ceremony involves meticulous rituals, from the precise movements of the host to the aesthetic arrangement of utensils and the serene ambiance of the tea room. Guests enter through a low door, symbolizing humility, and partake in a meditative experience that fosters a deep connection between host and guest.​

Britain: Tradition of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a quintessential British tradition that dates back to the 1840s. Introduced by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, it began as a light meal to bridge the gap between lunch and a late dinner. Over time, it evolved into a social event characterized by elegance and refinement.​

A typical afternoon tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of pastries and cakes, all accompanied by a pot of tea. This ritual, often enjoyed in upscale hotels and tea rooms, reflects Britain's colonial history and its enduring love affair with tea.​

India: Ubiquity of Chai

In India, chai is more than a drink; it's a cultural staple woven into the fabric of daily life. This spiced tea, made by brewing black tea leaves with milk, sugar, and a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, is consumed across the country, from urban centers to rural villages.

The popularity of chai surged in the 1950s, thanks to campaigns by the India Tea Board promoting tea consumption among the masses. Today, chaiwalas (tea vendors) are a common sight, serving steaming cups of chai to people from all walks of life, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and community.​

Tea Traditions Around the World

Beyond Japan, Britain, and India, tea holds a special place in various cultures:​

China: As the birthplace of tea, China's tea culture is rich and diverse, with practices like gongfu tea ceremonies emphasizing the art of brewing and appreciating tea.​

Morocco: Moroccan tea culture is centered around mint tea, a sweet and refreshing beverage served to guests as a sign of hospitality.​

Russia: In Russia, tea is traditionally prepared using a samovar, a metal container that keeps water hot for brewing strong black tea, often enjoyed with sugar, lemon, or jam.​

Tibet: Butter tea, made by churning tea with yak butter and salt, is a staple in Tibetan culture, providing warmth and energy in the high-altitude regions.​

Modern Tea Movement

In recent years, tea has experienced a resurgence among younger generations seeking healthier and more mindful alternatives to coffee and alcohol. Modern teahouses are emerging as social hubs, offering a variety of global teas and creating spaces for relaxation and connection.​

This contemporary tea culture blends traditional practices with modern sensibilities, emphasizing sustainability, wellness, and community. Teahouses often host events, workshops, and tastings, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art and culture of tea.​

International Tea Day serves as a reminder of tea's profound impact on societies worldwide. Whether it's the meditative rituals of Japan, the social elegance of British afternoon tea, or the everyday comfort of Indian chai, tea continues to bring people together, transcending cultural boundaries.​ As we celebrate International Tea Day 2025, let's raise a cup to the rich tapestry of tea traditions that unite us in our shared humanity.