International Tea Day
It’s International Tea Day. Tea is the second most popular beverage in the world next to water. It is considered for thousands of years as a great source of happiness, health and wisdom. The tea industry is a major player in the world today. Therefore, it is not surprising that there is a day totally dedicated to celebrating this popular beverage.
Since the year 2005, December 15th has held celebrations for International Tea Day across tea producing countries worldwide. Amongst many more, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Kenya and India have celebrated. Trade Unions, Labour Organisations and other Civil Society groups proclaimed December 15th as Tea Day during a meeting held in Brazil in 2004. Representatives from most tea producing countries were present for this decision on when to observe International Tea Day.
The original International Tea Day was celebrated in New Deli in 2005. It was an assembly of growers and workers from Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Vietnam, Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, Malaysia and Indonesia. The following year International Tea Day was observed in Sri Lanka in Kandy with a mass rally of tea workers. Tea workers, small growers and other stakeholders in the industry observe this special day ever since. Trade union movements jointly organise Tea Day celebrations. It draws attention towards the plight of tea workers and small growers. The overall purpose of International Tea Day is to give people an opportunity to extend their gratitude and appreciation to everyone involved. It celebrates the growing, processing and delivering this wonderful beverage to tea lovers all over the world.
Enjoy a beautiful cup of tea and appreciate its origins
This day has significantly contributed towards the International Alliance. It has brought forth the attention of respective governments to address issues in the industry. The observance of Tea Day has contributed to the sense of collectivisation among small tea growers in India and strengthened the Confederation of Indian Small Tea Growers Associations.
Whether you enjoy an Earl Grey, Darjeeling or a delicious blend, appreciation of its origin can increase your enjoyment and make your cuppa all the more nourishing and meaningful. Tea workers deliver more than just a drink so celebrate what tea is best known for and take a moment to sit back and relax with your cuppa. Imagine just how much hard work it has taken to get to your tea pot. December 15th is the perfect day to enjoy a beautiful cup of tea and appreciate its origins. Please join us in celebrating International Tea Day!