Payu Chaa (The Traditional Tea In Baltistan)

When you get exhausted by overwork, a cup of tea is always a good idea which not only refreshes your mind but also gives relief from tiredness. But can a cup be the major portion of one’s diet? Can it define the whole of a culture? Well, there is an area in Pakistan where the fondness for its traditional tea is truly unparalleled, and where people would always say YES to the idea of a cup of tea.

Home to almost 0.6 million people, in the North of Pakistan, is an area known as Baltistan, where the people are known for their hospitality and sense of brotherhood and love. It is a Land of harmony and peace.

But one thing that is not known about Baltis is their tea culture. Three times a day, the same kind of tea is drunk by all after every meal. Isn't that something fascinating and unique? Moreover, Baltis tend to drink their traditional tea called, "Payu Cha" in Balti language three to four cups in one go. This tea, also called butter tea, is also drunk in the mountainous areas of India, China, Nepal, and Bhutan. Due to differences in languages, it is known by different names in different regions. In Tibet, it is known as Po Chavor Bod Ja. Similarly, In China, it is known as Gur Gur.

Its consumption is more in winters as compared to summers. The butter added to this tea helps the body to fight against the freezing temperatures in winters.

Its preparation also involves a unique method; Firstly, tea leaves are added to water and boiled for about half an hour so that it gets black in color. Salt and a little baking soda are added since it fastens the process. Then the boiled tea is put into a Churn and butter is added. Now it is properly mixed and churned so that it gets its required consistency. Finally, milk is added and tea is ready to be served.

Its admiration has also been shown by a foreigner who came to climb  K-2 but failed and was left penniless. The local Baltis helped him and showed great hospitality. He could not help praising their way of welcoming. He was very much moved and, afterward, he wrote his best-selling novel, "Three Cup Of Tea"  the theme of which was inspired by Payu Cha.

He writes

"The first time you share tea (Payu Cha) with a Balti, you are a stranger. The second time you take tea, you are an honored guest. The third time you share a cup of tea, you become family, and for family, Baltis are prepared to do anything, even die".

              This aromatic hot beverage also serves as a symbol of unity among the Baltis. It is the staple food for a poor family as well as rich one. You go anywhere in Baltistan, in a house whose inhabitants live from hand to mouth or in a house where the family is a part of the elite class, Payu Cha will be served invariably. Payu Cha puts an end up to such discriminations among the masses.

             One interesting thing about Baltis hospitality is that it is incomplete if Payu Cha is not served and drunk; be it is a casual talk, a festival, a time of sorrow and condolence or a time of happiness and

In short, Payu Cha is an inseparable part of Baltis lives.


About The Author:
This article is written by Mairaj Kazmi. Mairaj is a student of Fsc pre-medical studying at G.C Lahore. He aims to get doctorate degree & serve his society.He is a part of Future Pakistan Team