Brewing Unity and Culture: Celebrating International Tea Day

Every year on May 21, the world comes together to celebrate one of its most beloved and ancient beverages—tea. International Tea Day is not just about sipping on a warm cup of your favourite blend. It’s a global observance that recognises the cultural, economic, and historical significance of tea and the millions of people whose lives revolve around its cultivation, production, and enjoyment.

From the lush tea gardens of Darjeeling to the tranquil tea ceremonies of Japan, from the Moroccan mint tea rituals to the British tradition of afternoon tea, this beverage transcends borders and unites cultures. As we mark International Tea Day, it’s worth exploring the deep roots of tea, the people behind its journey from leaf to cup, and the modern issues and opportunities that surround its production.

A Steeped History

Tea has been consumed for thousands of years, with its origins tracing back to ancient China. Legend credits Emperor Shennong, around 2737 BCE, with discovering tea when leaves from a wild tree drifted into a pot of boiling water. What began as a medicinal tonic eventually grew into a global phenomenon.

By the 17th century, tea had been transported from Asia to Europe via maritime trade routes, becoming a highly prized commodity. It played a pivotal role in shaping economies and politics, most notably in the Boston Tea Party of 1773, which helped spark the American Revolution.

Today, tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, after water. Its appeal lies not just in its variety—green, black, oolong, white, herbal—but also in its versatility and rich cultural heritage.

Why International Tea Day?

The United Nations declared May 21 as International Tea Day in 2019, following years of advocacy by major tea-producing countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and China. The goal is multifaceted:

• Raise awareness of the importance of tea in fighting hunger and poverty.
• Highlight the efforts of small tea producers and the value of sustainable production.
• Promote fair trade and ethical labour practices within the tea industry.

The observance aims to support the tea supply chain at all levels—from farmers and pluckers to exporters and retailers—ensuring that tea production contributes to sustainable development.

The People Behind the Leaves

Tea is more than a product; it's a way of life for millions of workers, especially in the Global South. Countries such as India, China, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Vietnam are among the world's largest tea producers. Collectively, they employ millions of people, often in rural areas where economic opportunities are limited.

A significant portion of the tea workforce comprises women, who work in challenging conditions and often receive low wages. Many of these women perform the delicate job of plucking tea leaves by hand—a task that requires both speed and precision.

International Tea Day brings much-needed attention to their struggles: low pay, insecure employment, exposure to chemicals, and lack of access to healthcare and education. Organisations and governments are increasingly recognising the need for ethical certifications, such as Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance, to improve working conditions for these workers.

Tea Farmers And Workers In Tea Garden (Image Credits: Canva)

Sustainability In The Tea Industry

Climate change presents a growing threat to tea cultivation. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and shifting weather patterns can affect both the yield and quality of tea crops. Traditional tea-growing regions are already reporting changes in flavour profiles and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Sustainable practices are no longer optional; they are essential. Many producers are turning to organic farming, shade-grown techniques, and water conservation methods to adapt to the changing climate. Furthermore, research and innovation are helping to develop more resilient tea plant varieties.

On the consumer side, there is a growing demand for transparency—people want to know where their tea comes from, who picked it, and whether the process is environmentally friendly. International Tea Day encourages consumers to make conscious choices, supporting brands that prioritise sustainability and fair labour.

A Cultural Infusion

Few beverages carry as much cultural symbolism as tea. In China, tea is deeply woven into spiritual and philosophical traditions. The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as chanoyu, is a refined ritual that emphasises harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity.

In India, tea—or chai—is a daily ritual and social connector. Street-side stalls serve hot, spiced tea in small cups, creating gathering spots for conversation and social interaction. In Britain, afternoon tea is a cherished institution, complete with fine china, scones, and finger sandwiches.

From Russia’s samovars to Morocco’s mint tea, each culture has adapted tea to its climate, palate, and traditions. On International Tea Day, people around the world are encouraged to share their cultural customs, recipes, and stories related to tea, promoting cross-cultural appreciation and unity.

The Business Of Tea

The global tea market is valued at over $50 billion and continues to expand. This includes not only traditional loose-leaf and bagged teas but also ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, herbal infusions, and speciality blends. Innovations such as bubble tea, matcha lattes, and kombucha have captured the interest of younger consumers, expanding the appeal of tea.

In recent years, there has also been a resurgence in artisanal tea crafting and tea tourism, particularly in countries such as Japan, China, and Sri Lanka. These experiences enable visitors to learn about the tea-making process firsthand and develop a deeper appreciation for the labor and tradition that go into each cup.

Digital platforms are revolutionising the way tea is marketed and sold. E-commerce has allowed small-scale producers to reach global audiences, and subscription boxes have brought curated tea experiences to people’s doorsteps.

Tea And Wellness

Tea is often associated with health and wellness, offering a natural alternative to sugary beverages. Rich in antioxidants, certain types of tea are believed to aid digestion, improve mental clarity, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation.

Green tea, for instance, contains catechins linked to heart health and weight loss. Chamomile is known for its calming effects, while peppermint tea can soothe digestive issues. While not a cure-all, tea remains a staple in many wellness routines around the world.

The pandemic years also contributed to tea’s growing popularity, as more people turned to comfort rituals and self-care. The act of making and drinking tea itself can be meditative, offering a moment of pause in an increasingly fast-paced world.

Tea Offers Several Health Benefits (Image Credits: Canva)

Looking Ahead: The Future Of Tea

As the world evolves, so does the way we grow, sell, and consume tea. Technology is playing an increasingly significant role, from AI tools that help predict harvest times to blockchain systems that enhance traceability and authenticity.

The rise of climate-smart agriculture, regenerative farming, and ethical sourcing indicates that the industry is moving toward a more conscious future. But challenges remain, especially for smallholders who lack the resources to adapt quickly.

For consumers, International Tea Day is a prompt to think beyond the teacup. Where did your tea come from? Who made it? What impact did it have on the environment and the people involved in its production?

By choosing ethically sourced tea and supporting policies that protect both workers and ecosystems, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and equitable tea industry.

Celebrating International Tea Day

Whether you're a seasoned tea connoisseur or a casual drinker, International Tea Day offers a perfect occasion to try something new—be it a rare oolong, a regional herbal blend, or an unfamiliar cultural preparation. Tea houses, community groups, and online forums worldwide often host tastings, discussions, and educational events to commemorate the occasion.

At its core, tea symbolises the connection between people, cultures, and the planet. As you raise your cup today, remember the journey that leaf has taken and the lives it has touched along the way.

Here’s to tea—ancient, global, and constantly evolving.

(Note: Dr (Prof) Sadhana Kala is a USA-trained robotic & laparoscopic surgeon, Uppsala University, Sweden, trained fertility specialist, Icon Endoscopic Surgeon of North India, and National Icon Endoscopic Surgeon of India. She is rated as India's Best Gynecologist by Google.)

(Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the personal opinions of the author.)