The story of Tapan Kumar Das is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to the art of tea tasting. From humble beginnings as a junior tea taster to establishing Tea Leaf India, his journey reflects his deep expertise and commitment to the Indian tea industry.
With a Master's degree in Bengali from North Bengal University, Mr. Das had initially set out on a different career path. However, a chance visit to Sancheti Tea changed his trajectory. Starting as a Junior Tea Taster, he worked long hours under the mentorship of Mr. S.M. Sancheti, gradually mastering the complexities of tea tasting, blending, and procurement.
Despite being self-taught, Mr. Das expanded his knowledge through guidance from his seniors and academic insights from the Tea Management Program at IIPM Bangalore. Over the years, he not only developed a deep understanding of tea tasting, brokering, and auction dynamics, but also became a respected figure in the industry.
In 2018, his expertise was recognized beyond India when he was invited by the Nepal Tea and Coffee Development Authority to conduct a seminar on Tea tasting, Buying & Blending on CTC and Orthodox teas. This seminar was a milestone in his career, establishing him as an educator in the field.
The 2020 pandemic served as a turning point for Mr. Das, inspiring him to pursue his entrepreneurial vision after nearly a decade of professional job experience from 2011 to 2020. Encouraged by close friends and with the support of his mentors, he founded Tea Leaf India in 2020-2021, stepping into the industry as an independent buyer and consultant.
Today, he manages the procurement, quality assessment, and auction, private purchases for leading tea packeters across India.
As a quality consistency advisor, Mr. Das works closely with tea gardens and bought-leaf factories, ensuring that every batch of tea meets the highest standards. He is also an advocate for improving industry knowledge among young professionals, stressing the importance of quality over quantity in Indian tea production.
Beyond his business endeavors, Mr. Das finds solace in traveling to the mountains, listening to music, and biking. His journey is not just about professional success but also about inspiring the next generation of tea professionals with his wisdom and experience.
With plans to launch his own tea brand, Mr. Das continues to innovate and shape the future of tea procurement and tasting in India. His story is a testament to the power of dedication, mentorship, and an unrelenting passion for tea.
