What is the Indian legend regarding the discovery of tea?
Tea is one of the most popular drinks in India, but there is also an interesting legend connected with its discovery. The Indian legend about tea is associated with Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk who is believed to have spent a long time meditating.
According to the legend, Bodhidharma once became sleepy while he was meditating. He was very disappointed because he wanted to remain awake and continue his meditation. The story says that he cut off his eyelids and threw them on the ground.
The legend further says that ten tea plants grew at the place where his eyelids had fallen. The leaves of these plants were later used to prepare tea. It was believed that drinking tea made from these leaves helped people stay awake and prevented sleep.
Answer
According to the Indian legend, Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk, became sleepy while meditating. The legend says that ten tea plants grew from the place where his eyelids fell. The leaves of these plants were used to make tea, which was believed to help people remain awake.
What does this legend tell us?
This story gives a traditional explanation of how tea was discovered in India. Although it is a legend rather than a scientifically established account, it has become a memorable part of the traditional stories associated with tea.
For students, the main point to remember is the connection between Bodhidharma, meditation, ten tea plants, and staying awake. These details make the answer easy to understand and remember for an examination.
Quick Revision
- Person: Bodhidharma
- What happened: He became sleepy during meditation
- According to the legend: Ten tea plants grew from his fallen eyelids
- Use of tea: It was believed to help people stay awake