Recently, a cultural event titled “Indian Tea Culture — More than Just Tea” was held in Bishkek, organized by the Embassy of India in Kyrgyzstan. The aim of the event was to familiarize Kyrgyz people with the traditions of tea drinking and the rich variety of Indian tea types.
Chef Chinmay Badodekar noted that in India, tea is not just a daily beverage, but an important part of culture and communication.
“We want to introduce Kyrgyz people to the diversity of Indian tea and the methods of brewing it. We have, just like you, two main types of tea — granulated and leaf,” he added.
Offering tea in India is considered a sign of friendship.
In every Indian family, there are unique traditions for preparing tea: some add milk, others add spices or special ingredients, creating their unique recipes.
The opening of the event began with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and the establishment of harmony. Guests such as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of India to Kyrgyzstan Birender Singh Yadav and the head of the Women's Congress in Kyrgyzstan Zamira Akbagysheva participated in this ceremony.
The ambassador emphasized that tea around the world is not just a beverage, but a symbol of community, cultural exchange, and generational continuity.
India ranks second in the world in tea production. This beverage is loved by billions of people from different cultures and continents.
Birender Singh Yadav
Zamira Akbagysheva shared personal memories of Indian tea.
“When I was in the third grade, I often saw tea with an elephant image in the store. I would stand in line specifically to buy it for my family. Since then, I have warm feelings for Indian tea,” she said.
In her opinion, it is important to remember the hardships involved in tea picking.
“Women pick it under the scorching sun, and that’s why tea should be appreciated,” she added.
During the event, participants were offered four types of Indian tea: Assam, Darjeeling, Milduri, and Masala. Each type differs in both brewing method and taste. For example, Masala is tea with the addition of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, pepper, anise, and milk, which holds special significance for every Indian.
The organizers noted that such events contribute to strengthening cultural ties between India and Kyrgyzstan and help to better understand the traditions and values of both peoples.
