The Nilgiris, with its rolling hills of green and breathtaking views, is home to some of India’s finest tea gardens as well. But the story of tea growing here is as interesting as the tea itself. The tale of Nilgiri tea begins in the mid-19th century, a story of colonial enterprise, local initiative, and a most unexpected group of contributors—Chinese prisoners of war.
Chinese Prisoners of War and Their Contribution to Tea Plantation
The introduction of tea into the Nilgiris got an unusual turn during 1859 when Chinese war prisoners were brought from China to India. These Chinese POWs were quartered in two camps—One at Naduvattam and another within the Thiashola reserve forest. The local tradition states that these Chinese POWs played an active role in helping early planters both in cultivation and processing tea at Thiashola.
The experience of the Chinese with tea culture was instrumental in the formation of the early plantations of the region. Since China had a long history of tea culture, the knowledge of the prisoners is said to have had a great influence on the methods followed in Nilgiri tea production.
Spice Up Your Business with Authentic Indian Flavors
Import and Export Excellence from India!
Kotagiri’s Tea Legacy and the Role of Miss MBL Cockburn
As the Thiashola area was witnessing tea estates bloom with Chinese workforce, yet another prominent development was occurring in Kotagiri. The area witnessed one of its first tea estates being planted by Miss MBL Cockburn, a daughter of M D Cockburn. She established tea cultivation with the help of Chinese laborers around the region of the Kotagiri Club.
The Cockburns were already well known for their work in the Nilgiris, and Miss Cockburn’s role in early tea production was a milestone. Her input, together with the expertise of the Chinese laborers, laid the basis for Kotagiri to be one of India’s leading tea-growing regions.
The Lasting Legacy of Early Tea Pioneers
The combined input of early planners, Chinese war captives, and native labourers laid the foundation for a thriving tea business in the Nilgiris.
Tea cultivation grew with time, and Nilgiri tea established itself as having a characteristic flavor, briskness, and fragrance. Nilgiri tea is now renowned internationally, and its fame continues to build.
The historical contribution of Chinese prisoners in Nilgiri tea estates might not always be well known, but their role is an integral part of the rich tea history of the region. As we enjoy a refreshing cup of Nilgiri tea, we are also enjoying a slice of history forged through resilience, innovation, and cross-cultural cooperation.
Spice Up Your Business with Authentic Indian Flavors
Import and Export Excellence from India!
About us
We bridge the gap between local producers and global markets, ensuring seamless trade facilitation with exceptional quality and reliability. We provide quick delivery services with customized packaging with all approval of International Certificates (Spices board India, MSME, IEC, fssai, FIEO, APEDA, EU certification, FDA and Many More)
Contact us
Shop No. 3, Ganesh Prestige Sr. No. 2/15, Near Laxmi Jewellers, Dhanakawadi, Pune – 411043, Maharashtra INDIA.
Call On
+91 9545205050
+91 9822422584
Leave A Comment