PM Modi shares a cup of assam masala chai with UK PM Keir Starmer in London, putting the global spotlight on indian tea. Know why assam tea is world-famous.
A shared cup of masala chai turned into a warm diplomatic gesture when indian prime minister Narendra Modi enjoyed tea with UK prime minister Keir Starmer. The iconic moment at Chequers, the official countryside residence of the UK PM, became the surprise highlight of the day when both the leaders were served tea at a pop-up tea stall.
The stall was set up by akhil patel, an Indian-origin entrepreneur and founder of amala Chai, a London-based startup that's known for its authentic indian tea blends. Dressed in a vibrant Nehru jacket, patel proudly told the leaders, "Masala chai, sourced from India. Tea comes from assam, spices from Kerala," as he served the drink.
Once a data analyst, patel is now a full-time chai entrepreneur. The images of his interaction with both leaders have since gone viral.
Why assam Tea Stands Out Globally
Assam tea, the variety featured in the diplomatic exchange, is celebrated globally for its bold flavour, rich colour, and high caffeine content. Grown in the lush Brahmaputra Valley, this tea variety is known for its robust taste and is often the base for indian masala chai.
Not just a household staple in India, assam tea enjoys strong demand in global markets and is a key component in international blends like English Breakfast tea.
Besides its rich flavor profile, assam tea is also packed with antioxidants and is known to boost metabolism, improve mental alertness, and promote heart health, making it a favourite among wellness-conscious consumers.
India's Tea Powerhouse
India is the second-largest tea producer globally, and assam is at the very heart of this legacy. With more than 800 major estates and 60,000 small growers spread across 3,00,000 hectares, assam alone contributes nearly 55% of India’s total tea output. The tea industry employs about 17% of Assam’s workforce, making it a critical sector for both livelihood and economy.
Other major tea-producing states include West Bengal, tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
With increasing international exposure through moments like these, India’s regional teas have become the ambassadors of culture, heritage, and more.
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