First Flush Plucking Event marks the beginning of the new harvest season of first flush Darjeeling tea, a beverage renowned for its delicate flavor and unparalleled aroma. As the mist dissipates and the first rays of sunlight caress the tea bushes, tea artisans from far and wide converge to partake in this auspicious celebration. The First Flush Plucking Event is an age-old tradition of Okayti Tea Estate that transcends generations and connects communities of the estate.
The First Flush Plucking Event serves as a testament to their commitment to excellence and their deep-rooted connection to the land. This celebrated event was organized by the management of the Okayti Tea Estate on 29th 2024 and witnessed an overwhelming response from the surrounding community and esteemed professionals of the tea industry. The Managing Director of Okayti Tea Estate Mr. Rajeev Baid inaugurated the event and felicitated the tea artisans of the estate for their immense dedication and unwavering commitment to nurturing the tea estate with care.
Amidst the celebration, there was a sense of appreciation for the tradition and craftsmanship that went into each pluck. Every leaf was carefully selected, every bud handled with the utmost care, ensuring that only the highest quality leaves made it into the baskets. As the day wore on and the baskets filled with precious leaves, the excitement only seemed to grow. There was a shared sense of pride among the tea artisans knowing that they were playing a vital role in producing something truly exceptional brew which is appreciated around the globe for its delicate aroma and soothing taste.
A sense of excitement permeates the air and tea artisans adorned in traditional attire gather at the break of dawn, their spirits high with anticipation. The plucking ceremony begins with prayers offered to the divine, seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest and a successful season ahead. It is a moment of reverence, a recognition of the profound connection between nature and humanity.
With prayers concluded, the artisans set out to the fields, baskets in hand, ready to pluck the tender first flush leaves. This initial harvest is crucial, as it yields leaves with the highest concentration of flavor and aroma, embodying the essence of spring. The plucking itself is a skill honed over years of practice—a precise amalgamation between precision and intuition. Each leaf is carefully selected, ensuring only the finest quality makes its way into the baskets.
The First Flush Plucking Event is more than just a harvest—it is a celebration of heritage, a reaffirmation of identity, and a tribute to the land that sustains us. It is a reminder that amidst the fast-paced modern world, there are still moments of timeless beauty and enduring traditions worth preserving.