Every year on May 21, International Tea Day is celebrated to honour the profound cultural, economic, and social impact of tea globally. Recognised as the most consumed beverage after water, tea transcends its identity as a mere drink—especially in India, where it symbolizes warmth, hospitality, and a daily ritual. This special observance acknowledges the tireless efforts of millions involved in tea cultivation and processing while promoting sustainable practices in the global tea industry.
Historical Background of Tea
- Tea’s origins trace back over 5,000 years to ancient China, with folklore attributing its discovery to Emperor Shen Nung in 2737 BC. Legend has it that some tea leaves accidentally fell into a pot of boiling water, creating the first infusion.
- Initially used in religious ceremonies and valued for its medicinal properties, tea gradually gained prominence as a beloved beverage worldwide.
- To challenge China’s monopoly on tea production, the British introduced tea cultivation in India around 1824. The Indian subcontinent soon became a major hub of global tea production, with iconic regions like Darjeeling, Assam, and Nilgiri becoming synonymous with premium quality tea.
- Today, India produces nearly 900,000 tonnes of tea annually and stands as one of the largest producers and consumers in the world.
The UN Recognition and Declaration
- The United Nations General Assembly declared May 21 as International Tea Day in December 2019. This decision was made in response to a proposal by the Intergovernmental Group on Tea and aims to recognise tea’s pivotal role in the economy, culture, and livelihoods of millions of people worldwide.
- The resolution particularly emphasized the need to increase awareness of tea’s contributions to sustainable development, fair trade, and improved living standards.
Theme of International Tea Day 2025
The theme for 2025 is “Tea for Better Lives,” reflecting the beverage’s deep contribution to health, environmental sustainability, and economic well-being. The theme underscores how the tea industry supports the achievement of key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as,
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 15: Life on Land
Through responsible cultivation and trade, tea has the potential to uplift entire communities and ecosystems.
Significance of International Tea Day
Tea is more than just a comforting cup—it is a source of income for millions of smallholder farmers and labourers across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. International Tea Day sheds light on the social and economic challenges faced by tea workers and promotes,
- Fair wages and working conditions
- Environmental sustainability
- Empowerment of women in the tea industry
- Greater consumption in producing countries
Additionally, tea—especially green and herbal varieties—is known for its antioxidant properties and health benefits, making it a wellness beverage endorsed globally.
Tea and Culture
- From Japanese tea ceremonies to Indian roadside chai stalls, tea forms an integral part of social customs and cultural heritage. Each cup tells a story—of tradition, toil, and connection.
- International Tea Day celebrates this shared global culture while encouraging responsible practices “from field to cup.”
Quotes to Celebrate International Tea Day 2025
- “Where there’s tea, there’s hope.”
- “Tea: a hug in a cup.”
- “A cup of tea is an excuse to pause, refresh, and reconnect.”
- “From Darjeeling to Assam, every sip celebrates heritage and hard work.”
- “Tea is more than a drink; it’s a culture brewed with care.”
- “On International Tea Day, let’s toast to tradition, sustainability, and health.”
Women and the Tea Sector
- Women play a central role in the tea industry—from plucking leaves to managing cooperatives and running businesses.
- This day is also a call to support women-led enterprises and create new opportunities through training, access to markets, and inclusion in decision-making processes.