My Tea Journey: The Story of Ooty Oasis
A Life Steeped in Tea
Namaste, I’m Nataraj, and my story is one of tea, family, and the beautiful Nilgiri hills. Tea isn’t just a beverage for me; it’s the very essence of my being, a passion that has defined my life’s journey.
My journey began at the tender age of 18, when I first stepped into the world of tea at Kairbetta Tea Estate. It was here, under the watchful eye of my father, that the seeds of my lifelong passion were first planted.
Learning the Art of Tea
From my very first day at Kairbetta, I was surrounded by the intoxicating aroma of fresh tea leaves. My father, my first and most influential teacher, began to unveil the secrets of tea cultivation to me. Each day, I watched and learned as he tended to the plants with a devotion that bordered on reverence.
Those words stayed with me, shaping my understanding of tea not just as a crop, but as a living, breathing entity with its own tale to tell.
The Journey Continues
As I grew in experience and knowledge, my career took me from Kairbetta to Highfield Tea Estate, where I spent 8 years as a field officer. Each estate, each role, added new layers to my understanding of tea cultivation and production.
It was during these years that I truly began to grasp the magic of tea. I learned to transform ordinary tea into something extraordinary, blending traditional wisdom with innovative techniques. I discovered exactly how to nurture each plant, providing the right minerals and irrigation to coax out the most exquisite flavors.
The Pembroke Years
The most significant chapter of my tea story unfolded at Pembroke Estate, near Manjakombai village. For 25 years, I served as the manager here, honing my craft to perfection. It was during this time that my passion for tea truly blossomed into expertise.
At Pembroke, I had the opportunity to implement everything I had learned over the years, from the initial lessons my father taught me to the insights I had gained through my own experiences. Every day was a new chance to create something extraordinary.
The Guiding Light: Viram Chetiyar
Behind every great story is an unsung hero, and mine was Viram Chetiyar, the owner of Pembroke Estate. Chetiyar sir wasn’t just an employer; he was a beacon of support throughout my career.
His generosity extended far beyond the tea fields. He ensured I had access to resources and opportunities to grow, stood by me during important moments, and became an integral part of my professional journey. His unwavering support allowed me to pour my heart and soul into the tea, knowing that my efforts were recognized and valued.
Ooty Oasis: A Dream Realized
Today, as I cradle each blend of Ooty Oasis in my hands, I feel the weight of my life’s journey. Every cup we create is a tribute to my father’s initial teachings, my years of experience, and the generations of tea lovers who have shaped our industry.
Ooty Oasis isn’t just a tea brand; it’s the culmination of a lifelong passion, a testament to the magic that happens when tradition meets innovation. When you choose our tea, you’re not just selecting a beverage; you’re becoming part of my story, a story steeped in love, perseverance, and the pursuit of perfection.
As we look to the future, our roots remain firmly planted in the rich soil of our heritage. I invite you to be part of this continuing story, to savor the fruits of my labor, and to experience the warmth of my passion in every cup. Welcome to Ooty Oasis – where every sip tells a story.