User:Newwriter007/History of tea in India

India is one of the largest tea producers in the world, although over 70 percent of its tea is consumed within India itself. A number of renowned teas, such as Assam and Darjeeling, also grow exclusively in India. The Indian tea industry has grown to own many global tea brands and has evolved into one of the most technologically equipped tea industries in the world. Tea production, certification, exportation and all facets of the tea trade in India are controlled by the Tea Board of India. From its legendary origins to modern processing techniques, tea production in India delicately weaves together cultural heritage, economic prowess, and technological advancement.

The Indian Tea Legend
In the rich history of tea in India, one intriguing tale stands out: the legend of Daruma's Tea, also known as Bodhidharma's Tea. According to legend, Bodhidharma, an Indian ascetic revered for spreading Zen Buddhism to China, faced the challenge of drowsiness during meditation. Determined to achieve enlightenment without rest, he tore off his eyelids in frustration. Miraculously, the discarded eyelids sprouted into a leafy plant upon touching the earth. Daruma, as Bodhidharma is known in Japan, brewed the leaves into a tea that banished sleep and enhanced mental clarity. This mystical tea, believed to symbolize hospitality and mindfulness, gained popularity among monks and scholars seeking enlightenment. Thought steeped in legend, the story of Daruma's Tea resonates with the cultural heritage and spiritual traditions associated with tea in India.

Women in tea plantations
The tea industry in Assam heavily relies on the contribution of women, who constitute over fifty percent of the workforce. Historically, women have played pivotal roles in Indian tea production, primarily as pickers and farmers. Despite enduring exploitation during the colonial era, characterized by low wages, long hours, and inadequate facilities, these women have displayed remarkable resilience. Their contributions have been vital in driving the industry's growth and sustainability. However, despite their significant role, women in the tea sector still face gender disparities and are often marginalized in leadership positions. This disparity reflects broader societal challenges related to gender inequality in India, as evidenced by the country's ranking of 108 out of 191 on the Gender Inequality Index. Despite these hurdles, women in tea plantations continue to shape the industry's trajectory and contribute significantly to its historical narrative. Their experiences shed light on the complex interplay of gender dynamics, labor practices, and social inequalities within India's tea industry.

Tea and independence
Tea was important during India's struggle for independence. Gandhi urged people to boycott British goods, including tea, because of poor working conditions. Advertisers also promoted tea as a patriotic drink. After independence, tea became a symbol of unity and was owned by Indians.

The introduction of CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea processing has had a transformative impact on the Indian tea industry. This method, known for its efficiency and consistency, revolutionized tea production by automating key stages of processing, leading to higher yields and reduced labor costs. CTC tea's uniform flavor profile and affordability have driven increased demand both domestically and internationally, allowing Indian tea producers to diversify their offerings and remain competitive in the global market. As a result, CTC processing has played a crucial role in making tea more accessible to a wider population in India and has solidified tea's status as a staple beverage, transcending barriers of class, creed, and color.