Debi Chettri

How long have you been growing tea and what got your started?
I began working when I was 18 years old and worked at Rohini estate for the past five years. I work as a plucker in the Rohini and Gopaldhara gardens during the annual harvest.

What is your favorite part of growing tea?
Each season I work with the same group of women picking tea. Many have become my good friends, so it's enjoyable to spend a day in the field hearing their stories.

Conversely, what is the hardest part of your job?
The weather in Darjeeling is unpredictable and it rains a lot. Being outside when the weather changes and the rains come down is my least favorite part.

Are there any tips you can give on how to best brew your tea? Any advice?
Darjeeling tea is very famous and the garden receives many foreign visitors. I am glad to know that I help produce something for which my country of India is well known.