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International Tea Day 2025: Celebrated on May 21, this day honours tea’s cultural, economic, and social significance.
International Tea Day 2025: This day aims to spread awareness about sustainable tea production and support the well-being of tea workers. (AI generated image)
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.
International Tea Day 2025: History
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.
International Tea Day 2025: Key Facts
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
- “Some individuals will claim that a cup of tea has a lot of poetry and lovely feeling.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson.
- “There is hope when there is tea.” – Arthur Wing Pinero
- “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 path to heaven passes through a teapot.” – Ancient Proverb
- “The music of tea is the melody that soothes me.” –Morgan Christiansen
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.
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