In two of the world's most renowned tea-growing regions — Darjeeling and Assam — families have worked and lived for more than a century behind the fences of tea estates. Today, driven by need, inspired by ideas and supported by visionary estate management and the generosity of Tazo Tea, they are remaking a world too often governed by colonial strictures.
Unity Takes Root in Darjeeling
Fifty Indian rupees isn't a lot of money. But in northeast India's Darjeeling District, it's a day's pay for hard-working tea pickers.
|
A Skilled Trade to Last a Lifetime
The word "manokamana" means "good wish of the mind" and refers to one of the Nepali people's most sacred places. For 24-year-old Sharmila Gurung, it also means opportunity.
|
Buzzing with Cosmic Energy
Time spent with Rajah Banerjee - tea estate owner, agricultural pioneer, mystic and Mercy Corps supporter - is a mind-altering experience.
|
A Different Kind of Teatime
Since its inception in Assam in January 2007, CHAI has helped more than 500 families break the cycle of poverty through savings and small business development.
|
Pay Dirt
Moni Das's village is referred to simply as Line 10, Deohall Division, Deohall Tea Estate, Assam. But thanks to the efforts of women like Moni, it is gaining a name for itself.
|
Styling a Better Future
The eight kilometers that Sonia and Rima bike each day from their homes on the Maud Tea Estate might seem like a short ride — but that distance spans two worlds in India's Assam state.
|
The Spirit of Social Responsibility
Tazo Tea's Keith Hutjens talks about the roots and philosophy of the Community Health and Advancement Initiative (CHAI) and the company's commitment to social responsibility.
|
More India stories in the Archives
By Niraj Lama, March 5, 2007
Darjeeling tea is one of the world's most enjoyable beverages - but it doesn't come easily to your cup.
By Roger O. Burks, Jr., January 18, 2007
In northern India, youth like Lamu Sherpa are helping create career opportunities for themselves and others.
By Liz Larson, January 19, 2006
Laxmi Tamang and Merina Mukia are changing lives as health volunteers in the remote Indian village of Kalej Valley.
Over the last five years, more than 89% of resources allocated directly to programs.