Tea is more than just a drink—it is a ritual, a moment of pause, and a source of comfort. Whether it’s a calming cup of green tea at night, a warm mug of chai on a quiet morning, or a thoughtfully brewed cup shared with friends, tea carries meaning far beyond flavour.
Four tea insiders share how they experience tea and why it plays such an important role in their lives.
Husna-Tara Prakash, owner and managing director of Glenburn Tea Estate in Darjeeling, believes tea tastes best where it is grown. By opening her estate to visitors, she allows people to understand tea as part of daily life. For her, tea is a living expression of land, climate, and care. She enjoys experimenting with brewing methods and believes that small adjustments in time, water, or quantity can transform a cup.
Sai Karthik, a gongfu tea host based in Bengaluru, views tea as an immersive experience. His journey with tea began in Hong Kong and evolved into hosting curated tea sessions. Brewing the same leaves multiple times reveals new flavours with every infusion. His approach is guided by the time of day and seasonal harvests, allowing tea to be enjoyed at its best.
Anamika Singh, a tea sommelier and founder of Anandini Himalaya Tea, comes from a family deeply rooted in the tea industry. She believes tea deserves patience and respect. Her advice includes avoiding sugar, using good-quality water, letting tea cool slightly before sipping, and choosing loose-leaf teas. She also encourages visiting tea gardens to truly appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup.
Yangdup Lama, mixologist and founder of Sidecar, grew up surrounded by tea gardens in Darjeeling. His upbringing shaped his understanding of flavour and balance. He incorporates tea into cocktails by infusing it into spirits, syrups, and mixers, ensuring the tea remains the highlight. From iced teas to tea-based cocktails, he believes tea offers endless possibilities.
Together, their stories highlight that tea is not simply a daily habit, but a thoughtful practice rooted in tradition, creativity, and connection.