What is The Indian Legend Regarding the Discovery of Tea?Updated 3 days ago

Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world. While it is often associated with China, Indian legends tell fascinating stories about its origin, including the connection with Bodhidharma, a revered Buddhist monk.

Bodhidharma and the Origins of Tea

According to legend, Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk from India, traveled to China to spread meditation practices. He devoted long hours to meditation and found it difficult to stay awake. To overcome sleepiness, he cut off his eyelids and threw them to the ground. From these fallen eyelids, a plant grew—the tea plant. The leaves of this plant, when brewed, helped monks stay alert during meditation.

The Hermit of Assam

Another Indian version of the tea legend comes from Assam, where a hermit discovered tea leaves in the wild forests. One day, while boiling water, leaves from a nearby bush accidentally fell into his pot. When he tasted the infusion, he felt energized and refreshed. He shared this discovery with local villagers, who began using the leaves for their stimulating and medicinal properties.

Tea’s Cultural and Medicinal Significance

Both legends highlight the connection between humans and nature. Tea was not only valued for its taste but also for its ability to energize the mind and body. Over time, it became a symbol of hospitality, social bonding, and cultural identity, especially in regions like Assam and Darjeeling, where tea cultivation became a central part of life.

A Timeless Legacy

The Indian legends about tea—whether through Bodhidharma’s miraculous eyelids or the hermit of Assam—show the curiosity, observation, and reverence for nature that led to the discovery of this world-famous drink. Tea continues to be a part of daily rituals, meditation practices, and social traditions, connecting people across centuries and continents.