Chai & Chai-Wallah - Indian Ink Theatre Company

Chai & Chai-Wallah

Chai

Chai is a traditional Indian beverage that has gained popularity worldwide for its unique and comforting flavours. It’s a type of tea that’s brewed with a blend of black tea leaves, aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, along with milk and sugar. The result is a rich, creamy, and flavourful drink that offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.

Chai is not only delicious but also holds cultural significance in India, where it’s often served as a symbol of hospitality and warmth. It’s commonly enjoyed during social gatherings, as well as during quiet moments of relaxation. Whether you’re sipping it hot on a chilly day or over ice in the summer, chai is a beloved beverage that can transport you to a world of exotic flavors and comforting aromas.

 

Chai-Wallah

A Chai-Wallah, in India, is a ubiquitous figure found on bustling streets and in busy markets. These individuals are skilled artisans who specialize in preparing and serving chai, the beloved Indian beverage.

Typically, they set up small, makeshift stalls adorned with colourful pots, kettles, and spices. With a practiced hand, a Chai-Wallah brews batches of chai by combining black tea leaves, spices like cardamom and cinnamon, milk, and sugar in a large pot, infusing the air with a tantalizing aroma. They expertly pour the chai into small cups, balancing the flavours perfectly to create a drink that is both comforting and invigorating.

Beyond their role as tea makers, Chai-Wallahs also serve as community connectors, fostering conversations and camaraderie among locals who gather around their stalls to share stories and laughter over steaming cups of chai.