INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY
“Tea is like the magic key to the vault where your brain is kept”. After water, tea is the second most popular beverage drunk worldwide. It is a universal beverage that transcends cultures, borders, and generations. Its rich history, diverse flavors, and numerous health benefits have made it a cherished drink around the world. To honor this beloved beverage, International Tea Day is celebrated annually on 21st May. This day serves as a global platform to promote and recognize the importance of tea in our daily lives.
The first-ever International Tea Day was celebrated in New Delhi, the capital of India, in 2005. Other tea-growing nations including Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Uganda, and Tanzania eventually joined in the celebrations.
The idea of dedicating a day to tea originated in 2005 during the World Social Forum in India. The participants recognized the significance of tea in promoting sustainable agriculture, economic development, and cultural diversity. Subsequently, the International Tea Day was established by the United Nations in 2019, acknowledging the social, economic, and cultural dimensions of tea production and consumption.
Regarding the exact date of International Tea Day, there is considerable confusion. Although the United Nations General Assembly declared December 15 as International Tea Day, it is important to note that May 21 had already been designated as International Tea Day.
International Tea Day aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by tea producers and workers worldwide. It emphasizes the need for sustainable tea production practices and fair trade policies. This day encourages consumers to support ethically sourced teas that prioritize environmental conservation and provide fair wages to the farmers and workers involved in the tea industry.
Tea production is a vital source of income for many communities, particularly in developing countries. By celebrating International Tea Day, we recognize the role of tea in driving economic growth, poverty reduction, and rural development. The tea industry provides employment opportunities for millions of people, empowering local communities and contributing to their socio-economic well-being.
Tea is deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of numerous nations. International Tea Day celebrates this diversity and highlights the unique tea traditions around the world. From the elaborate tea ceremonies of Japan to the vibrant chai culture in India, tea plays an integral role in social gatherings, hospitality, and cultural rituals. By embracing and appreciating these diverse tea customs, we foster cultural exchange and understanding.
Beyond its cultural significance, tea offers a wide array of health benefits. Whether it’s green tea, black tea, oolong tea, or herbal infusions, each type of tea possesses its own unique properties. Tea is known for its antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and protect against chronic diseases. Additionally, it contains compounds that can improve brain function, boost metabolism, promote heart health, and strengthen the immune system. International Tea Day serves as a reminder to incorporate tea into our daily routines for its potential health-enhancing effects.
On International Tea Day, people worldwide come together to celebrate the joys of tea. Events and activities such as tea tastings, tea parties, tea workshops, and seminars are organized to promote tea culture and educate the public about the significance of tea. The day provides an opportunity for tea enthusiasts, industry professionals, and tea companies to collaborate and share their passion for this cherished beverage.
International Tea Day is an occasion to acknowledge and appreciate the global impact of tea. It emphasizes sustainability, fair trade, cultural diversity, and the health benefits associated with tea consumption. By celebrating International Tea Day, we pay tribute to the countless individuals involved in the tea industry and honor the rich heritage of tea.
(The Author is associated with Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Dhenkanal)
