A whopping 6.3 billion kilograms of tea are consumed every year, making it one of the most popular beverages in India. This aromatic amber liquid is an elixir for most which gives a much-needed jump-start to your day. In present times it is an essential commodity and a necessity in most households. However, not many people are familiar with the unique history of the Assam tea.
The Folklore of Assam Tea
Assam is the chief producer of the best quality tea in India and the second-best producer globally. Despite having its deep roots in ancient historical records, there has been an ongoing debate about its origin. Some claims firmly believe that the tea plant was first grown in China. During the Shang Dynasty’s reign, the Yunnan province’s people primarily consumed tea as a medicinal drink. However, there is a well-known folktale among the Singpho tribes of Assam. It states a story of two brothers who accidentally discovered these rejuvenating leaves during their hunting sprees. This is how tea became an essential part of the Singpho culture and was popularly known as Phalap or Singpho tea. As the first drinkers of tea, the Singpho tribe has consumed tea for its rich medicinal values for centuries.
Influence of East India Company
The discovery of tea in a small tribe of Assam was a treasure in disguise waiting to be unveiled. This rejuvenating drink had been a part of Assam’s culture for centuries. However, tea was popularized after the British East India Company was established in 1600. China had been the chief exporter of tea for England in the 1800s. Now, the Company extended its arm of trade in India. The tea industry flourished with time, Assam being the heart of this booming business.
The onset of the Tea Industry
The journey from being a sip of health in a small tribe to an all-time favorite leisure drink for masses comes with another story. Robert Bruce, a Scottish adventurer, spotted the tea plant in a wild bush during his visit to Rangpur, capital of Ahom in upper Assam. Later, Maniram Dewan, an Assamese nobleman, introduced Bruce to Bessa Gam, the local Singpho chief. Bessa provided Bruce with samples of the indigenous plant. Bruce also got an opportunity to closely observe the plucking, sun-drying, and smoking of tea leaves by Singpho natives. After Bruce’s sudden demise, his brother Charles Alexander Bruce proceeded with the tea explorations. By 1835, Charles’ diligent efforts had paid off. Eventually, the establishment of the Assam Tea Company took place. They produced a special variety of tea called ‘Assamica’. Gradually, England’s trade relations with China came to an end.
Halmari – A Paradise with the Best Selection of Tea
Halmari’s legacy as the best tea manufacturers of Assam can be traced back to 1913. The Daga family of Assam has owned these expansive green plantations since 1990. Halmari Tea estate is a part of the Halmari and Duliabam Tea Estate, spreading over 534 hectares. The orthodox tea-making process in the age-old estate distinguishes us from other tea producers worldwide. Our estate employs experienced manufacturers. Our expertise has managed to produce fine tea even during lean periods. We have proudly earned our brand name over the years, inevitably ranking among the best nine tea estates worldwide.
The Ultimate Tea Experience with Halmari
Over the years, Halmari has become the ultimate destination for tea lovers globally. We bring forward our premium collection of first flush and second flush teas to give a fresh start to your mornings. We have teas to suit your every mood and to complement every seasonal change. To name a few, we have Halmari Gold Hand Rolled Oolong tea and Halmari Gold Green tea for fitness enthusiasts, Halmari Gold White tea for people who occasionally enjoy white tea, and even Halmari Gold CTC (English Breakfast) for milk tea lovers. Now you can indulge in a cup of flavourful tea any hour of your day. Avail of our services online with just a few clicks!