For actress Parakh Madan, tea is far more than a beverage. It is a ritual of mindfulness, a moment of reflection, and a cherished connection to some of her fondest childhood memories. While many people enjoy tea as a daily habit, Parakh views it as an essential pause in her day—an opportunity to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with herself.
Speaking on the occasion of International Tea Day, observed annually on May 21, the Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 actress shared how tea continues to play an important role in her life.
“A perfect cup of tea for me is a feeling of reset and recharge,” she said. “Twice a day, I consciously take out 10 to 15 minutes for myself to sit down, sip my tea, breathe, and re-center my thoughts. Those few moments help me reconnect with myself amidst a busy schedule.”
Her relationship with tea began at an early age and is deeply rooted in family traditions. One of her most treasured memories revolves around learning how to make tea from her mother.
“Tea was actually the first thing I learned to prepare,” Parakh recalled. “My mother taught me exactly how she liked her tea and how my father preferred his. During my school days, it became my routine to make tea for both of them every evening before heading out to play. It was such a simple ritual, but today it has become one of my most cherished childhood memories.”
When asked which tea best reflects her personality, Parakh’s answer was immediate and thoughtful.
“If I had to describe myself through a cup of tea, it would definitely be a classic Kashmiri kahwa,” she shared. “It is calm, soothing, warm, inviting, and carries a certain elegance. Those are qualities I naturally connect with, and I believe kahwa represents my personality perfectly.”
For Parakh, routines provide a sense of stability and emotional well-being. Tea has become an integral part of that daily structure.
“I am someone who loves routine because routines bring me peace and happiness,” she explained. “My tea-time ritual contributes significantly to having a balanced and stress-free day. When things happen at the right time and in the right rhythm, it creates a sense of calm.”
Beyond personal comfort, Parakh believes tea holds a special place in society because of what it represents emotionally.
“I think tea symbolizes a pause—a moment where people can slow down and reconnect either with themselves or with those around them,” she said. “That is why tea becomes much more than just a beverage for so many people.”
She also spoke about the role tea plays in creating warmth and comfort between people.
“Brewing a cup of tea for someone is one of the simplest yet purest acts of care and hospitality,” she said. “Whether someone is celebrating a happy moment or going through a difficult phase, offering them a warm cup of tea instantly communicates support, comfort, and compassion.”
Interestingly, when asked whom she would most like to share a cup of tea with, Parakh offered an answer that reflected her appreciation for solitude and self-connection.
“To be honest, I would choose to have that cup of tea with myself,” she revealed. “As much as I value the people in my life, there is a unique beauty in uninterrupted solitude. It allows you to listen to yourself and simply be present.”
For her, the perfect tea-time experience is beautifully uncomplicated.
“A cup of tea, a good book, and some soft instrumental music—that is my idea of the perfect tea ritual,” she said.
Through her thoughtful reflections, Parakh Madan highlights how everyday rituals can become meaningful anchors in our lives. Whether it is a reminder of family, a moment of self-care, or a symbol of connection, tea remains for her a daily celebration of stillness, comfort, and mindfulness.
