The Comfort in a Cup
You know how sometimes all you need is a cup of chai and everything suddenly feels okay? That’s me almost every evening. No matter how hectic the day is — traffic deadlines or Delhi is unpredictable mood swings — once I sit with my cup of masala tea it’s like the world slows down for a bit.
Growing up, chai wasn’t just a drink in our home; it was a ritual. Every morning, the sound of boiling milk and crushed cardamom meant the day had started. My dad would sip his Indian tea while reading the newspaper, mom would plan breakfast, and we kids would steal those small sips when nobody was looking. Funny how those moments stay with you forever. From Simple Chai to Fancy Gourmet Tea.
From Everyday Chai to the Fancy Gourmet Stuff
Now, times have changed. Everyone’s talking about gourmet tea — those fancy blends with rose petals, cinnamon, and whatnot. I tried one recently, and honestly, I didn’t expect to like it.But it was so soothing. Not too strong, just this perfect mix of warmth and fragrance. Still, nothing beats a good spiced tea made the desi way — strong, a little gingery, maybe even with some tulsi if you’re feeling fancy.
One evening, I had a friend over — the type who swears by black coffee and oat milk. I made her my usual chai, with a dash of cloves and a hint of pepper. She took one sip and just smiled, “This tastes like comfort.” And that’s exactly what chai is — comfort in liquid form.
The Small Joys Around Tea
For me, chai isn’t just about drinking; it’s about the whole vibe. Rain tapping on the windows, a soft playlist in the background, and that first hot sip that wakes you up from inside. Or those office tea breaks where you end up talking more with colleagues over chai tea than in meetings.
Sometimes I think — no matter how modern we get, chai will always bring us back home. It’s not fancy, but it’s real. It’s ours.
Easy Tea Days
The best part now is, you don’t even have to go hunting for good tea anymore. There are so many options for tea delivery these days — all kinds of flavours and blends at your fingertips. I usually order mine from Aap Ka Bazar, the store I trust for most of my kitchen essentials
(they don’t deal in fruits, vegetables, milk, or bread, but they’ve got plenty of other good stuff). They’ve got such a nice variety — perfect when you want to try something new without stepping out.
Ending with a Sip
Some days, all I need is five quiet minutes and a cup of chai. Whether it’s a classic masala tea or a fancy gourmet tea, it just sets things right. It’s funny — life keeps changing, but chai stays the same. Always warm. Always comforting. Always there.
