On 8th May 2019, Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius was invited by the Ravenala Attitude Hotel, as part of the Training Programme on Chinese Language and Culture, to deliver a presentation on ‘Tea and its importance in Chinese Culture’.
Naraindra Kistamah, Mauritian Director and Tan Xudong, Chinese Director attended and hosted the event, with teachers and students from Confucius Institute. Associate Professor Kistamah talked about how tea is linked to the daily lives of Chinese people. There are special circumstances in which tea is prepared and consumed in Chinese culture. It may be to show respect and hospitality, as a sign of respect and to show gratitude or celebrate an event such as a marriage. The history of tea may reveal a lot about Chinese culture.
Associate Professor Tan delivered a presentation about Chinese tea. He started with the origin of tea in China, and went on talking about the etiquette and habits people developed when they serve or consume tea. Mr Tan elaborated on the characteristics of five main types of tea in China.
The talk was followed by a demonstration about the art of serving and drinking tea by Chinese volunteer teacher, Ms He Jiahuan (Maggie). The audience participated in the tea drinking sessions and they could appreciate the distinct flavours and characters of the different tea being served. ‘Light finger tapping is an informal way to thank the tea master or tea server for tea. While or after one's cup is filled, the receiver of the tea may tap the index and middle fingers to express gratitude to the person who served the tea.’
Plate 1. Mauritian Director of CI-UoM talking to the audience about tea; tea being one of the greatest discoveries of Ancient China and which still lives today to be an integral part of Chinese Culture.
Plate 2. Chinese Director of CI-UoM addressing the audience during his presentation about Chinese tea.
Plate 3. Chinese Volunteer Teacher, He Jiahuan (Maggie) performing the art of preparing and serving tea to the attentive audience.