Navratri is a journey—a spiritual, cultural, and, let’s be honest, culinary adventure. By Day 4, you’ve likely settled into the rhythm of fasting (or feasting, depending on how you approach it), reveling in Garba beats, and embracing the energy of Goddess Kushmanda, the deity associated with this day. Kushmanda, whose name means ‘the cosmic egg,’ represents creation, warmth, and the inner sun that fuels our strength.
And what better way to honor warmth than with a perfectly brewed cup of tea?
The Morning Ritual: A Tea Worthy of a Goddess
I like to think of my morning tea as a sacred ritual—a moment of stillness before the day sweeps me into its arms. And today, in honor of Kushmanda’s warmth, I decided to experiment with a tea that embodies strength, vitality, and, of course, a little bit of my kitchen chaos.
Ingredients:
1 cup water
½ cup milk (or almond milk if you’re fasting)
1 tsp loose black tea leaves (or a tea bag, no judgment!)
½ inch ginger, crushed
2 green cardamom pods, lightly smashed
A pinch of cinnamon
Rock sugar or honey, to taste
Brewing Magic: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. The Boil Begins: In a pan, bring the water to a rolling boil. Let it bubble like the enthusiasm of a Garba dancer on her tenth round. The key here is patience—boiling water too aggressively might make the tea too bitter. A steady, rolling boil extracts the flavors perfectly.
2. Spice Infusion: Add ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. These spices are the soul of the tea, much like rhythm is the heart of a Navratri dance. Let them swirl in the water like the colors of a Navratri outfit—bold, bright, and full of promise. The warmth of ginger wakes up your senses, while cardamom and cinnamon lend a soothing aroma that makes the whole kitchen smell divine.
3. Tea Time: Now comes the crucial part—adding tea leaves. Loose tea leaves give a richer flavor, but if you’re using a tea bag, steeping it properly is key. Let the tea dance in the pot for 2-3 minutes. The longer it brews, the stronger it gets, much like our inner resolve during these nine days of devotion.
4. Milk Magic: Pour in the milk and bring it to another simmer. Stir gently, as if coaxing good vibes into your cup. The milk blends all the flavors together into a smooth, creamy texture, much like how devotion and discipline blend together to form the essence of Navratri.
5. Sweeten the Deal: Strain the tea into a cup, add rock sugar or honey, and take a moment to appreciate the aroma. It’s like a warm hug from the universe. The sweetness isn’t just for taste—it symbolizes the joy and gratitude we feel during Navratri. Every sip is a reminder of warmth, strength, and creation.
Tea and Spirituality: A Deeper Connection
As I sip my tea, I reflect on the significance of Day 4. Kushmanda is believed to reside in the sun, radiating boundless energy and vitality. That’s exactly what this cup of tea does—it infuses warmth and strength into my day.
The Cosmic Egg and the Act of Creation
Kushmanda’s name means ‘cosmic egg,’ signifying the beginning of the universe. It’s fascinating how something as small as a tea leaf can hold so much power—just like how from nothing, the universe was created. A tiny tea leaf, when treated with respect, patience, and the right ingredients, transforms into a drink that energizes and soothes at the same time. Isn’t that magical?
The Fasting Connection
Many people observe fasts during Navratri, consuming only satvik foods. Tea, when made mindfully, can be a beautiful addition to this fasting routine. Ingredients like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon aid digestion, keep the body warm, and help sustain energy levels throughout the day. For those avoiding milk, almond milk or coconut milk can be wonderful substitutes.
The Ritual of Making Tea: A Metaphor for Life
I’ve often thought about how the process of making tea mirrors life itself:
The boiling water represents challenges—we need them to extract our true potential.
The spices symbolize experiences, both bitter and sweet, that shape our journey.
The tea leaves are like our emotions—too much steeping leads to bitterness, too little leaves us unsatisfied. Balance is key.
The milk is the nurturing element that brings it all together, much like love and support from those around us.
The final sip? That’s the reward of patience, mindfulness, and savoring the present moment.
Tea and Navratri Traditions Across India
Did you know that different regions in India have their own variations of tea during Navratri?
In Gujarat, people sip on elaichi-infused chai after a night of Garba to soothe their throats from all the singing and dancing.
In Bengal, spiced black tea is preferred, with a hint of cloves and black pepper.
In North India, fasting teas include herbal blends with tulsi and mulethi, known for their healing properties.
In South India, a lighter, cardamom-infused tea is commonly served with jaggery as a natural sweetener.
It’s incredible how one drink can be interpreted in so many ways, just like Navratri itself—celebrated uniquely in every region yet unified in spirit.
A Challenge for You: Mindful Sipping
So here’s my challenge to you: Today, as you sip your tea, let it be more than just a habit. Let it be a moment of gratitude, of strength, and of quiet joy. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and feel the warmth spread through you. Think of one thing you’re grateful for, and let that gratitude fill your heart.
And if you happen to spill a little in the process, just call it an offering to the divine (or a sacrifice to the kitchen counter).
Happy Navratri and happy sipping!