Saif is a tea-holic

Ask Saif Ali Khan the question, “Tea, coffee or me?” and pat comes the reply: “Tea.” Not surprising, for he’s the new brand ambassador for Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea. A role of another kind, but one which he enjoys to the last sip. “It’s an honour to be associated with the brand, considering Zakir Hussain was also its ambassador. Ever since my childhood days in Bhopal, I associate the brand with class and elegance,” says the Chhote Nawab while inaugurating the Taj Tea Trail — a tea-tasting and appreciation workshop on Monday. Getting more chatty over a cuppa, Saif says, “Tea is the oldest drink in the world, and there’s a lot of care that goes into making the perfectly brewed cup.” With a range of new and exotic teas like the Dessert tea, Connoisseur Himalayan, Connoisseur Woodsmoked and Cardamom and Bergamot teabags, Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea aims at making a connoisseur from a consumer; just as in wine, so as in tea. “Tea may not be as elitist and expensive as wine, but it certainly can be as exciting. Now, even the common man can enjoy being a connoisseur,” believes Saif. A self-confessed tea-totaller, was Saif always a tea-holic, or did his brownie points lie with coffee before? After all, you can either be a tea drinker or a coffee gulper? “I’ve always preferred tea, it gives me that extra kick in the morning and relaxes me in the afternoon. Besides, it’s also tastier!” And what does he like his chai with? “It used to be with toast, but now that I’m dieting it’s just plain tea, without even sugar! But tea goes well with just about anything, be it biscuits, sandwiches, samosas or bhelpuri!” Having endorsed two other products with M S Dhoni, and coming from a cricketing legacy, what does he think of the young new captain? “Dhoni seems to be respected. He’s decent, yet aggressive. He, and all the younger boys, represent the New India — they’re spirited, not demure.” Does he play cricket himself? “It’s in my blood, but I also play rugby and soccer.” We know he also plays the guitar, ever thought of making a career out of it? “I’d like to play more, but not as a career, just as a passion. My career’s fine, thank you!” laughs Saif. One other thing, besides his tea, that he’s addicted to? “I believe tattoos are addictive. I might just get another one done, maybe on my right shoulder.” What would it be? “I don’t know yet, but it has to mean something to me.” Tea-tasting note: The Chhote Nawab is as hot as the tea he endorses!