Why Indians Love Kulhad Chai

A kulhar differs from a terra-cotta cup as it is unpainted. Unglazed kulhars let hot liquid seep into the internal wall. When hot tea is poured into Kulhad, the clay has an earthy amplifying influence on the taste and aroma of the beverage.

There is something unimpeachably raw and organic about kulhad. Perhaps, since it is made of clay, it strikes a chord with the sentiment of the motherland. Indians are known for their passion for anything swadeshi. There is a special bond between anything raw and rustic. And kulhad chai brings the best of both worlds for Indian tea lovers. 

Compared to other tea serving cups, these earthen ones ensure better hygiene. The chance of uncleanliness is out of the question. As they are meant for single use, one can be assured that these cups are free of germs and bacteria. This makes it one of the safest utensils to drink tea from any outside stall. Kulhars are intrinsically sterile and hygienic because they are manufactured by firing in a kiln.

Until the arrival of plastic and Styrofoam cups or tumblers, tea stalls used either glass or kulhad to serve tea. The latter is entirely eco-friendly. And unlike the former two, it doesn't tax the environment by adding to soil or water pollution. They are organic, which is one reason driving their revival.

Chai is a unifying factor for Indians. Perhaps every issue can be sorted over a hot kulhad of kadak (strong) chai. When Indians opt for a kulhad, they also express solidarity to support the potter's community. These inexpensive clay tumblers are the source of livelihood for this fraternity. A sip of kulhad chai supports the makers of this handmade earthen crockery.