Tea Shops in West Bengal

The significance of ‘tea Shops’ in West Bengal has a long history to talk about and some cultural aspects associated with it.  Not only in present days but its value has been with our culture for generations. Although, with time the concept of tea shop has changed dramatically and it has become modernized, however, the charm of it is still very much alive in the heart of Bengalis. The prolonged tradition, attached to it is quite intact till the date. In old days, when people were not having the opportunity to listen to television or did not have the luxury to call friends, tea shop was a place, where all used to gather and gossip for hours. It was certainly a means of refreshment to many and for some just a place to drink tea.

With time many things may have changed but the tradition of seeing friends or have an intense argument among the customers about different topics from politics to sports at a tea shop remained a tradition for us. At present days college goers and corporate people love to go to cafe coffee and such places which are just the reminiscences of our traditional tea shops. Nonetheless, though people have adapted to western culture and prefer to spend time at places like modern coffee shops, the essence of local tea shops is still there.  The renovated coffee shops where we can have a luxury experience while sipping at their coffee mug and relaxing on couch, can’t really give us the attachment that can be felt in a local tea shop.

This entire concept of’ tea shop’ and the discussion among the customers are somehow distinguishing our culture with others. Perhaps it is a rare sight in other states where people are gossiping or arguing on different topics for hour, while taking tea in a local tea shop. Regardless of age and caste people in West Bengal get involved into serious conversation while having tea which often last for hours.

It is said that ‘Bengali’ people cross all limits when they visit a tea shop. The topic of discussion doesn’t bother any limitation and quite openly we can criticize and discuss whatever we wish. It is a common phenomenon when at a tea shop we, the Bengalis, proudly discuss about celebrities from any sphere, be it sports, film or politics, as if we possess enormous knowledge in that sphere. In reality we barely have any idea about the preliminary aspect on the subject that we talk about at a tea shop but it really does not bother anyone or stops anyone to talk about anything. It is somehow our comfort zone and we enjoy it in every bit. 

Having said all these we must agree to the fact that the number of tea shops in our locality is reducing. The growing competition in the market often begets the tea sellers to choose some other occupation. Besides, the new generation seem feels reluctant to visit a local tea shop rather they prefer to visit renovated coffee shops. But still, regardless of circumstances ‘tea shops’ in Bengali culture holds the same immense perspective which no Bengali can ever ignore.