International Tea Day, first established by the United Nations, is not just a celebration of tea lovers, but also a reminder to recognize and respect the lives of those who make this global ritual possible.
Dharitri Das
The day begins with the gentle clinking of a spoon against a ceramic cup. The aroma of freshly brewed tea earthy, warm and nostalgic fills the air. It is more than a beverage; it is a ritual, a comfort and a silent companion.
My earliest memory of tea is from my grandmother’s kitchen in Odisha. She would sit by the window, patiently boiling loose tea leaves with cardamom and ginger. The brew would simmer with the stories she told—about family, festivals and a time when tea was a luxury. I didn’t know then that I was sipping history, tradition and resilience all in one cup.
On International Tea Day, I find myself reflecting not only on my own love for tea, but also on what this simple drink represents across the world. The day is celebrated annually on May 21st world-wide. The date was chosen by the United Nations to recognize the culture, economic and social significance of tea, especially in developing countries where it’s a major source of income and employment.
International Tea Day raises awareness about the economic and social importance of tea in rural development, poverty reduction and food security. The day emphasizes the need for sustainable tea production and consumption, considering the environmental impact of tea cultivation. Also, it highlights the working conditions, challenges and contributions of tea workers and small-scale producers worldwide.
From India’s chai to China’s green tea to Britain’s afternoon tea tradition, the drink has become a daily ritual in billions of households. It crosses borders, cultures and classes. From the bustling ‘chaiwala’ in India to the serene tea ceremonies in Japan, tea brings people together. It is as much about community as it is about taste. It invites conversations, soothes tensions and in some cases, even sparks revolutions.
Tea is also deeply political. The global tea trade has been long tied to colonial histories and labour struggles. Behind every packet of tea is thousands of workers—many of them women—who toil in plantations under tough conditions.
International Tea Day, first established by the United Nations, is not just a celebration of tea lovers, but also a reminder to recognize and respect the lives of those who make this global ritual possible.
This year theme, ‘brewing sustainability together’ focuses on sustainable tea production and climate action. As the tea industry involves in climate changes, unpredictable weather and soil degradation, the need of environmentally friendly farming practices has become necessary.
According to the Food and Agricultural organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, tea provides a livelihood for over 13 million people globally, many of whom are small scale farmers. Still there are many farmers who are facing low wages, poor working conditions and limited access to healthcare and education.
On this International Tea Day, let’s raise a cup not just to the sip we cherish, but to the people behind it, the cultures it represents, and the quiet strength it symbolizes. In a world constantly brewing with change, tea reminds us that sometimes, the best things take time. The global tea market is also evolving with changing consumers preferences. Younger generations are exploring herbal, organic and special tea. Social media platforms are buzzing with #internationalteaday, as users share their favourite recipes and facts. Brands and cafes are offering discounts and thematic events turning the day into celebration.
(Author is a student of Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Rama Devi Women’s University, Bhubaneswar. Views expressed are personal.)
