An 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 introduce Kyrgyz people to the traditions of tea drinking and the diversity of Indian teas.
Chef Chinmay Badodekar noted that Indian tea is not just a drink, but an important element of communication and culture. "We aim to present the richness of Indian tea and various ways of brewing it to the people of Kyrgyzstan. In India, as in your country, there are two main types of tea consumed - granulated and leaf tea," he added.
The offering of tea in India is perceived as a gesture of friendship.
Every Indian family has its unique traditions for preparing tea: some add milk, spices, or other ingredients, thus creating special recipes.
The opening of the event began with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp, symbolizing harmony and light. The ceremony was attended by the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of India to Kyrgyzstan, Birender Singh Yadav, and the head of the Women's Congress in Kyrgyzstan, Zamira Akbagysheva, along with other guests.
According to the ambassador, tea is not just a drink around the world, but a symbol of culture, unity, and the continuity of generations.
India ranks second in the world in tea production, which is highly valued by people from various cultures and countries.
Birender Singh Yadav
Zamira Akbagysheva shared her memories of Indian tea. "In my childhood, when I was in the third grade, I always noticed tea with an elephant image in the store. I stood in a long line to buy it for my family. Since then, I have had special feelings for Indian tea," she said.
She also emphasized that it is important to remember how much labor goes into tea picking. "Women pick it under the scorching sun, and it should be appreciated," Akbagysheva added.
During the event, four varieties of Indian tea were presented: Assam, Darjeeling, Milduri, and Masala, each differing in type and brewing method. Masala, for example, is tea with the addition of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, pepper, anise, and milk, making it unique for every Indian.
The organizers of the event noted that such events contribute to strengthening cultural ties between India and Kyrgyzstan and help to better understand the traditions and values of both nations.
