90 Years of Society Tea: Brewing Legacy, Trust, and Innovation in Indian Homes

For generations, the ritual of brewing tea has remained one of the most enduring habits in Indian households, cutting across regions, routines, and social settings. As Society Tea marks its 90th anniversary, its story mirrors the journey of an Indian tea brand that has steadily grown alongside evolving consumer lifestyles while remaining deeply rooted in everyday tea culture.

From Chai Galli to a National Label

The origins of Society Tea trace back to 1933, when Hiravan Pranjivandas established Hasmukhrai & Co in Mumbai. The company began as a tea wholesaler in Masjid Bunder’s Chai Galli, then the nerve centre of Maharashtra’s tea trade. “The company started as a tea wholesaler in Masjid Bunder’s Chai Galli, which was the hub of the tea trade in Maharashtra at that time,” says Dhaval Shah, Director, Society Tea.

The packaged brand as consumers know it today was formally launched in 1990–91. The shift came at a time when Indian households were moving from buying loose tea to preferring sealed, branded packs that ensured consistency. “The plan was simple yet visionary – to provide quality, consistency, and freshness in every cup. Right from the inception, the idea was to develop a tea brand that could easily integrate into the fabric of Indian life, irrespective of age and geography.” 

Milestones That Shaped the Brand

Over the decades, several milestones shaped Society Tea's trajectory. Its early years as a wholesaler helped the company develop depth in sourcing, grading, and blending. That technical grounding later translated into consumer trust.

“The shift to packaged tea in the early 1990s was a significant milestone for us, enabling us to deliver tea to homes directly while still adhering to the same level of quality,” Shah notes. In the years that followed, the focus remained consistent: maintaining freshness while building loyalty.

As consumer lifestyles changed, so did expectations. An Indian tea brand today must respond to busier routines and digital-first consumption habits. For Shah, legacy is not about resisting change.

“For us, legacy is not about remaining the same; it is about preserving the essence while changing around it,” he says. “Our fundamentals of freshness, taste, and quality have remained the same. What has changed is the way we package and serve this promise to our consumers.”

In line with evolving demand, Society Tea has entered convenience-driven categories, including instant premixes and ready-to-drink beverages. These formats cater to younger consumers and working professionals seeking speed without compromising on taste. 

Tea in the Age of Coffee

The rise of café culture and premium coffee chains has reshaped urban beverage preferences. Yet, according to Shah, tea remains deeply rooted in Indian daily life.

“The coffee culture has definitely expanded, especially in the urban and lifestyle segments. However, tea remains deeply ingrained in the daily lives of Indians,” he says. Rather than viewing coffee as competition, he sees it as an opportunity. “This presents a chance to redefine the role of tea in modern lives through faster formats, on-the-go solutions, and new occasions of consumption while still maintaining its significance.”

The broader Indian tea industry is undergoing a transformation. Once driven largely by volume, it is now seeing premiumisation and innovation. “The Indian tea industry is undergoing a shift from being volume-driven to premiumisation, innovation, and globalisation,” Shah explains. “Today, consumers are more receptive to curated blends, convenience packaging, and brands with strong heritage.”

Sourcing, Sustainability, and Responsibility

Quality remains central to Society Tea’s operations. “Quality sourcing and blending have always been at the heart of Society Tea,” Shah emphasises. Years of experience have enabled the company to balance consistency with regional taste preferences while experimenting with new flavour profiles and packaging innovations.

Sustainability, too, is becoming an increasingly important part of the conversation. “There is a rising awareness about responsible sourcing and sustainability in the industry as well as consumer circles,” he acknowledges. The brand narrative now pays closer attention to the origins of tea and its connection to nature—an area that is likely to grow in importance in the coming years.

Looking Ahead

As it marks its 90th anniversary, Society Tea is focused on measured expansion—both within India and in select international markets. Growth will be driven by innovation in formats, stronger digital and quick-commerce presence, and deeper engagement with younger consumers.

To the generations who grew up with the brand, his message is direct: “We are thankful to the generations of consumers who have accepted Society Tea in their homes. As we move ahead with the changing times, our commitment to you remains the same – to provide you with a dependable and refreshing cup of tea.”