From Empire to Everyday: How Tea Became India's Chai [Nov. 8th, 2026]

South Asian Tea Traditions & Live Masala Chai Demonstration; Next Class: Saturday, Nov 8th, 2026 (Registration closes 2 days before the event)

How Did Tea Become Chai?

Tea was never originally intended to become India's national drink. Yet today, millions of cups of chai are brewed every day in homes, markets, railway stations, and neighborhood tea stalls throughout the country.

How did a plant grown for export become one of the world's most beloved daily rituals?

Join us for a fascinating journey through the history of tea in South Asia as we explore the remarkable story of how tea transformed into India's chai. Through guided tastings, historical storytelling, and a live brewing demonstration, we'll trace tea's path from the tea gardens of Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri to the bustling railway stations and neighborhood chai stalls that have become symbols of hospitality across India.

Along the way, you'll discover how three of India's most celebrated tea-growing regions each developed their own unique character, why Assam became the tea of choice for traditional masala chai, and how generations of families adapted tea into a comforting beverage all their own.

The class includes a live demonstration of traditional stovetop masala chai that is commonly seen in Indian households, and introduces the spices commonly used in India for Masala Chai. You'll experience the aromas of cardamom, ginger, and Assam tea while learning the techniques behind one of the world's most iconic tea traditions.

Whether you're a tea enthusiast, history lover, or simply curious about the story behind your favorite cup of chai, this immersive experience offers a deeper appreciation for the culture, craftsmanship, and community found in every sip.

Your Experience Includes

• Guided tasting of four premium South Asian teas
  • Traditional Masala Chai
  • Darjeeling
  • Nilgiri Nonsuch Estates
  • Chai Latte that resembles the Indian Household Traditions
• Live demonstration of traditional stovetop masala chai
• Light refreshments
• Two loose leaf tea samples to take home (a $5 value)
• 10% discount on loose leaf tea purchases during the event

Additional Information

Please leave a note during checkout if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Questions before you book this tea class? Please email: events@churchillsteas.com 

Cancellation Policy: 

14 days before the event- full refund minus $10 processing fee per ticket
7 days before the event - 50% refund minus $10 processing fee per ticket
Within 7 days of the event - No refund, but an event voucher will be issued for future events (with difference paid at new booking) with $10 processing fee per ticket

Consent for sharing photos and videos:

Please note that photographs and footage will be taken throughout the event. These will be used by Churchill's Fine Teas for marketing and publicity in our publications, on our website, and in social media or in any third-party publications. By signing up for the event, you and your guests in the event hereby grant us permission to use your likeness in a photograph, video, or other digital media (“photo”) in any and all of our publications, including web-based publications, without payment or other consideration.