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India Today
21-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- India Today
International Tea Day 2025: Date, history and significance
Tea, the world's second most consumed beverage after water, holds a cherished place in cultures worldwide. Every year on May 21, International Tea Day honours this timeless drink, acknowledging its rich history, cultural significance, and economic impact. This observance also emphasises sustainable production practices and the health benefits associated with tea ORIGIN AND EVOLUTIONThe story of tea dates back over 5,000 years to ancient China. Legend has it that Emperor Shen Nung discovered tea around 2737 BC when leaves from a nearby tree drifted into his pot of boiling by the resulting infusion, he found it both refreshing and invigorating. Initially valued for its medicinal properties, tea gradually became an integral part of Chinese culture and trade routes expanded, tea's popularity spread across Asia and eventually to the 17th century, European merchants introduced tea to the Western world, where it quickly became a fashionable beverage amongst the British, aiming to break China's monopoly on tea production, initiated commercial cultivation in India during the early 19th 1824, tea plantations were established in regions like Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri, propelling India to become one of the leading tea producers globally.'In India, tea is part of our daily routine, whether it's a morning cup at home, a catch-up with friends, or a quick break at a roadside chai corner. And there's almost always a biscuit by its side. This International Tea Day, we're happy to celebrate the timeless bond of chai and biscuits that brings people together across the country.' Siddharth Gupta, General Manager, Marketing, OF INTERNATIONAL TEA DAYadvertisementRecognising tea's profound cultural and economic importance, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed May 21 as International Tea Day in December annual observance aims to raise awareness about the long-standing history and deep-rooted significance of tea in societies also highlights tea's role in combating hunger and poverty, as millions of families, particularly in developing countries, rely on tea cultivation for their International Tea Day underscores the need for sustainable production and consumption promoting eco-friendly farming methods, fair trade, and equitable wages for workers, the day seeks to ensure that the tea industry contributes positively to both the environment and the communities involved in its BENEFITS AND CULTURAL TRADITIONSBeyond its economic impact, tea is celebrated for its numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, tea has been linked to improved heart health, enhanced metabolism, and reduced risk of chronic and herbal teas, in particular, are renowned for their detoxifying properties and ability to boost overall tea serves as a symbol of hospitality and social bonding. In countries like India, the United Kingdom, Japan, and China, tea ceremonies and rituals are integral to social interactions and the Japanese Chanoyu to the British afternoon tea, these practices reflect the deep-seated respect and admiration for this versatile beverage.
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Business Standard
21-05-2025
- General
- Business Standard
International Tea Day 2025: Know history, significance, quotes and more
Every year on May 21, International Tea Day is celebrated to recognise the cultural, economic, and social significance of tea across the world. For Indians, tea is more than just a beverage—it's a daily ritual and a symbol of hospitality. International Tea Day: History According to the United Nations, tea has been consumed in China for over 5,000 years. It is believed that Emperor Shen Nung discovered the drink when tea leaves were blown by the wind into a pot of boiling water while he and his soldiers were resting under a tree. The leaves infused into the water, giving rise to what would eventually become one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. Tea is believed to have originated in China around 2737 BC, where it was initially used in religious ceremonies and later valued for its medicinal properties before becoming a popular drink. To break China's dominance in tea production, the British introduced commercial tea cultivation in India in 1824. Since then, India has emerged as a major producer, with regions like Darjeeling, Nilgiri, and Assam becoming renowned for their tea. Today, India produces around 900,000 tonnes of tea annually. In recognition of tea's cultural heritage and economic significance, the United Nations General Assembly declared May 21 as International Tea Day in December 2019. The resolution highlighted tea's role as a traditional beverage across many societies and its vital contribution to the livelihoods of millions around the globe. International Tea Day 2025: Significance Tea has long been a part of cultural traditions, social customs, and hospitality across many countries. It is not only a popular drink but also a key livelihood for millions in tea-producing regions. International Tea Day highlights the economic importance of the tea industry and promotes sustainable production and fair trade. The day encourages eco-friendly farming, fair wages, and community development. It also raises awareness of tea's health benefits, as green and herbal teas are rich in antioxidants that support overall well-being. International Tea Day 2025: Quotes 'Where there's tea, there's hope.' 'Tea is the magic key to the vault where my brain is kept.' – Frances Hardinge 'A cup of tea is an excuse to pause, refresh, and reconnect.' 'Tea: a hug in a cup.' 'International Tea Day reminds us that every cup is a story—from leaf to life.' 'Tea is the elixir of life and the spirit of calm.' 'Sipping tea is an act of mindfulness and gratitude.' 'The best therapy is a cup of tea and good conversation.' 'From Darjeeling to Assam, every sip celebrates heritage and hard work.' 'Tea unites cultures, one cup at a time.' 'Every tea leaf tells a tale of tradition and toil.' 'To drink tea is to embrace peace and patience.' 'Tea is more than a drink; it's a culture brewed with care.' 'A perfect day begins with tea.' 'Tea brings us together, no matter where we come from.' 'Savor the moment, one sip of tea at a time.' 'Tea is the world's oldest wellness drink.' 'Celebrating women who nurture tea fields and culture this International Tea Day.' 'Tea is not just a beverage; it's a bridge across continents.' 'On International Tea Day, let's toast to tradition, sustainability, and health.'
News18
21-05-2025
- Business
- News18
International Tea Day 2025: History, Significance, Quotes And Chai's Facts
Last Updated: International Tea Day 2025: Celebrated on May 21, this day honours tea's cultural, economic, and social significance. International Tea Day 2025: Tea is the second most consumed beverage globally, and plays a vital role in many cultures. In India, chai is more than just a drink; it's an integral part of daily life and social interactions. Similarly, Japanese tea ceremonies lay emphasis on harmony and respect, while British afternoon teas are steeped in tradition. But do you know there is a day to celebrate this drink worldwide? International Tea Day is marked annually on May 21. This annual observance celebrates tea's profound cultural, economic, and social significance across the globe. It also aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable tea production and the support workers in the tea industry. The origins of this day trace back to 2004, when the World Social Forum declared December 15 as International Tea Day. In 2005, the day was first celebrated in New Delhi. Later, other tea-producing countries- Sri Lanka, Nepal and Kenya, also marked the occasion. In 2019, the United Nations General Assembly officially recognised May 21 as International Tea Day, with the first UN-sanctioned celebration in 2020. Since then, May 21 has been considered International Tea Day. International Tea Day 2025: Significance The industry supports employment in rural and economically disadvantaged areas, making it crucial for poverty reduction and sustainable development. This day aims to spread awareness about sustainable tea production and support the well-being of tea workers across the globe. The famous beverage has a history stretching back nearly 5,000 years to China. It is said that the then Chinese Emperor Shen Nung had discovered the beverage. As the story goes, while the emperor and his men rested under a tree, some leaves were blown into a pot of boiling water, resulting in the first cup of tea. Since then, this humble beverage has been part of traditions and lifestyles around the world. Beyond its rich taste and numerous health benefits, tea also plays a vital role in culture and socio-economic development. Cultivated in over 35 countries, it provides a livelihood to more than 13 million people worldwide. International Tea Day 2025: Quotes International Tea Day 2025: Celebrations Of Chai Day Host a tea party – Invite your friends, brew different blends, and share laughter over steaming cups. Brew a special cup for family – Surprise them with their favourite chai and some nostalgic conversations. Explore global tea cultures – From Darjeeling tea to matcha and Moroccan mint to chamomile, explore the diverse flavours of the beverage from around the world. Share the joy – Offer a cup to a neighbour, house help, or a friend – spread warmth through tea. Visit a local tea shop – Walk into your city's favourite tea spot and order your usual, the one that keeps your hands and heart warm. First Published: May 21, 2025, 07:10 IST
