International Tea Day 2025: Tea, a simple drink, yet one that holds the power to calm nerves, spark conversations, and bridge cultures. As the world comes together to celebrate International Tea Day on May 21, 2025, it’s not just about honoring a beverage but recognizing a global tradition, an economic driver, and a source of innovation and inspiration.
From ancient emperors to modern entrepreneurs, tea has woven itself into the social and spiritual fabric of our world. This article takes you through the fascinating journey of tea — its origins, varieties, cultural importance, health effects, modern business trends, and how new-age tea sellers like MBA Chai Wala and Dolly Chai Wala have revolutionized the way we look at a cup of chai.
International Tea Day 2025: Key Highlights
- The Mythical Origins and Early Journey of Tea
- Leaves of Legacy: The Timeless Tale of Tea
- A Sip for Every Mood: Exploring the Diverse World of Teas
- Brewing Bonds: The Cultural Rituals of Tea Around the World
- Chai, Charm & Change: The Teapreneurs Brewing India’s Startup Revolution
- Tea’s Global Footprint: Fueling Economies, Empowering Farmers
- Sip Your Way to Health: Surprising Benefits of Taking Tea
- When Tea Turns Toxic: Risks of Overconsumption One Should Know
- Sip, Celebrate, Sustain: Global Festivities on International Tea Day 2025
- From Leaf to Lifestyle: The Thriving Future of Tea Culture
- From Heritage to Hustle: Celebrating the Legacy of Tea
- Beyond the Cup: Sip Divine Bliss at Satlok Ashram This International Tea Day
The Ancient Origins of Tea: Where It All Began
The story of tea begins in myth and legend. One popular tale tells of Chinese Emperor Shen Nong, who accidentally discovered tea around 2737 BCE when leaves from a wild tree blew into his boiling pot of water. The resulting infusion intrigued him, and tea soon found its place in Chinese society — first as a medicinal remedy, then as a refreshing drink.
From China, the love for tea spread to Japan, where it was introduced by Buddhist monks in the early 9th century. These monks used tea during long meditation hours to stay alert. This eventually evolved into the refined and graceful Japanese tea ceremony, a practice still deeply respected today.
A Historical Brew: The Journey of Tea Through Time
China & Japan
By the Tang dynasty (7th to 10th century CE), tea had become an everyday drink in China. It was during this time that tea culture began to flourish, with poets and scholars praising its subtle charms.
In Japan, tea transformed into a ceremonial practice. Influenced by Zen Buddhism, the tea ceremony (chanoyu) became an art form symbolizing purity, harmony, and mindfulness.
India
India’s story with tea began in the 19th century under British rule. Although the native Assamica tea plant grew in the wild, the British began cultivating it on a large scale to reduce their dependence on Chinese tea. Today, India stands as one of the largest producers and consumers of tea globally.
Europe and Beyond
Tea reached Europe in the 1600s, becoming a fashionable beverage in the royal courts of England. It later evolved into the famous British tradition of afternoon tea, introduced by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. From there, tea spread across continents, becoming a daily ritual in countless homes around the globe.
Types of Tea: A Flavor for Every Palate
The diversity of tea is astounding, and each variety brings a different flavor, aroma, and set of benefits. The primary categories include:
- Green Tea – Lightly processed, high in antioxidants, and known for its health benefits.
- Black Tea – Fully oxidized leaves with a strong flavor; India’s Assam and Darjeeling varieties are global favorites.
- White Tea – The least processed and most delicate of all teas, often subtle and slightly sweet.
- Oolong Tea – Semi-oxidized, offering a flavor profile between green and black tea.
- Herbal Tea (Tisanes) – Made from herbs, flowers, spices, and fruits, and typically caffeine-free.
- Matcha – A powdered green tea from Japan, known for its vibrant color and concentrated health benefits.
- Masala Chai (Spiced Tea) – A staple in Indian households, combining black tea with milk, sugar, and aromatic spices like ginger, cardamom, and cloves.
Cultural Significance of Tea Across the World
Tea isn’t just a drink, it’s a tradition, a ritual, and sometimes even a form of worship.
- In China, offering tea is a sign of respect.
- In Japan, preparing tea is a spiritual discipline.
- In Britain, “tea time” is an institution – a pause in the day for comfort and socialization.
- In India, chai stalls are more than beverage kiosks. They are social melting pots, places where politics, poetry, business, and gossip brew alongside the tea.
In almost every corner of the world, tea brings people together, whether in bustling cafes, quiet ceremonies, or roadside shacks.
Also Read: Biological Processes and Their Importance in Daily Life
The Rise of Tea Entrepreneurship in India
In recent years, India has witnessed a powerful wave of teapreneurs — individuals who have transformed the humble cup of chai into a modern business model.
1. MBA Chai Wala (Prafull Billore)
Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, Prafull Billore started his entrepreneurial journey after quitting his MBA dreams. With just ₹800, he set up a roadside tea stall, which gradually evolved into the MBA Chai Wala brand. Through clever marketing, social media influence, and a unique concept of open-mic events, Prafull made tea hip for Gen Z.
Today, MBA Chai Wala has expanded into multiple cities, offering a menu filled with signature teas and light bites — showing the youth that success can be brewed with passion and persistence.
2. Dolly Chai Wala
Dolly Chai Wala, based in Nagpur, turned heads with his stylish tea-serving flair and charismatic personality. His videos went viral, making him a social media sensation. With signature tea recipes and a modern twist on the traditional tapri, Dolly became a brand of his own, attracting tourists, influencers, and even celebrities.
3. Latest Trends in Tea Startups (2025 Update)
- Women-led chai ventures like “Chai Peeni Hai?” and “Chai Garam” are gaining popularity in metro cities.
- Sustainable tea cafes focusing on organic blends and eco-friendly packaging are rising, especially among urban consumers.
- The rise of chai trucks and mobile tea vans is revolutionizing the street-food business model.
- In 2025, AI-powered vending machines for Indian-style masala chai are also being introduced in airports and malls.
- Tea stalls are no longer seen as informal businesses – they are brandable, scalable ventures.
Why Tea Matters: Economic and Agricultural Impact
Tea plays a crucial role in the global economy:
- Over 13 million people are involved in tea production worldwide, many of whom are women from rural backgrounds.
- Countries like India, China, Kenya, and Sri Lanka rely heavily on tea exports.
- Fair trade and organic tea farming are growing trends, ensuring better wages and sustainable practices for farmers.
- On International Tea Day, global organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) raise awareness about these workers’ contributions and promote equitable growth within the tea industry.
Health Benefits of Taking Tea
Tea isn’t just soothing to the soul — it’s also a boon to your health. Here are some benefits backed by modern research:
- Boosts immunity – due to containing polyphenols and catechins.
- Improves mental focus – The combination of caffeine and L-theanine helps enhance concentration.
- Supports heart health – Especially green and black tea which help in lowering bad cholesterol.
- Aids digestion – Herbal teas like peppermint or ginger tea soothe the digestive system.
- Reduces stress – Chamomile and lavender teas are known for their calming effects.
International Tea Day 2025 English Quotes
- “Tea is to the body as music is to the soul.” – Earlene Grey
- “Tea is the magic key to the vault where my brain is kept.” – Frances Hardinge
- ‘There is hope when there is tea.’ – Arthur Wing Pinero
- ‘Some individuals will claim that a cup of tea has a lot of poetry and lovely feeling.’ – Ralph Waldo Emerson
- ‘Like tea, we don’t really understand our own strength until we are submerged in hot water.’ – Sister Busche
- “Tea is the ultimate mental and medical remedy and has the ability to make one’s life more full and complete.” – Myoan Eisai
- ‘For the English, tea is just an indoor picnic.’ – Alice Walker
- ‘Tea will always be the preferred beverage of the cerebral, despite being mocked by people who are inherently course in their anxious sensitivities.’ – Thomas de Quincey
- ‘Thank God for tea! What would the world do without tea? How did it exist? I am glad I was not born before tea.’ – Sydney Smith
- “The first sip is joy, the second is gladness, the third is serenity, the fourth is madness, the fifth is ecstasy.” – Jack Kerouac
Possible Downsides of Tea Consumption
Despite its benefits, overconsumption of tea can have drawbacks:
- High caffeine intake can disrupt sleep and increase anxiety.
- Too much black tea may affect iron absorption.
- Sweetened teas, especially bottled versions, can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar issues.
- Acidic teas like lemon tea may cause enamel erosion or heartburn in sensitive individuals.
Moderation is key. Experts recommend 2–3 cups a day for maximum benefit.
Global Observance: How the World is Celebrating International Tea Day 2025
FAO’s Global Initiative
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has been organizing campaigns under the theme “Tea for the Future”, focusing on sustainable production and climate resilience in tea farming.
India’s Festivities
- Tea festivals in states like Assam and Darjeeling showcase local culture, music, and heritage.
- Startup expos in Delhi and Mumbai highlight emerging chai ventures.
- Educational drives promote the health benefits of traditional herbal infusions and indigenous varieties.
Digital Celebrations
- In 2025, with the surge in digital engagement, influencers and brands are hosting:
- #MyChaiStory contests on Instagram.
- Virtual tea tasting events.
- Tea pairing videos featuring Indian snacks and regional delicacies.
Also Read; Tea, Tranquility and Enlightenment: A Reflection on International Tea Day
Looking Ahead: The Future of Tea Culture
Tea is not just surviving — it’s thriving. With wellness trends, ethical sourcing, and entrepreneurship all aligning, the tea industry is brewing a bright future.
- The global tea market is projected to hit USD 266 billion by 2030.
- AI, automation, and robotics are being integrated into tea production and serving.
- Gen Z is exploring tea not only as a drink but as an identity – think chai NFTs, chai-inspired merch, and even chai podcasts.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Cup
As we celebrate International Tea Day 2025, we are reminded that tea is not just about taste. It’s about history, healing, hustle, and hope. From ancient scrolls to startup success stories, the journey of tea continues to inspire generations.
So whether you sip green tea for health, enjoy a kulhad of masala chai on a rainy evening, or build your own chai empire, remember — behind every cup is a legacy.
Let’s Take a Sip of Spirituality at Satlok Ashram
Why limit tea to just a drink, when it can become a doorway to peace, positivity, and the divine? There exists a sacred place where every visitor is welcomed not only with a warm cup of tea and crisp biscuits – absolutely free, 24 hours a day – but also with life-transforming spiritual wisdom. That divine destination is Satlok Ashram, founded by Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj, with branches across India and abroad.
At Satlok Ashram, you don’t just enjoy the best-tasting tea and biscuits, you also experience an atmosphere filled with serenity, purity, and the nectar of spirituality. Here, Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj imparts scripture-based true spiritual knowledge that illuminates the path to a meaningful life and ultimate salvation. A single visit to this ashram can be a turning point – offering not just physical refreshment but also spiritual awakening. Alongside every sip of tea, you receive teachings rooted in our holy scriptures that guide you toward making your human life successful.
To dive deeper into this precious wisdom and know more about Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj and His ashrams, read the enlightening book ”Gyan Ganga“, visit the official website www.jagatgururampalji.org or watch spiritual discourses on the “Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj” YouTube channel. On the occasion of International Tea Day, Come, taste the tea of divinity, and quench the thirst of your soul at Satlok Ashram.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about International Tea Day
Que. What is International Tea Day?
International Tea Day is a global observance celebrated to recognize the cultural, economic, and social significance of tea around the world. It also highlights the contributions of workers and farmers associated with the tea industry and promotes sustainable tea production and fair trade practices.
Que. When is International Tea Day celebrated?
International Tea Day is celebrated every year on May 21. This date was officially adopted by the United Nations (UN) in December 2019.
Who started International Tea Day?
The idea of International Tea Day originated from tea-producing countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Kenya, Malawi, and others, where local tea days were observed since 2005. The United Nations later recognized May 21 as the official International Tea Day in 2019.
Que. Which countries are the largest tea producers in the world?
The top tea-producing countries include:
China
India
Kenya
Sri Lanka
Vietnam
Turkey
Indonesia
