Chai is life. Life is Chai.

In Pakistan, life happens over cups of milky, sweet chai. The average Pakistani drinks between 3 and 6 cups of chai per day. When guests come to visit, chai is offered. When matters of business arise, the negotiations happen over several cups of chai. If there is a celebration, there must be chai. Any time two or more people gather together, chai is in order. It brings people together. It warms the heart. It fills the belly and gives you a charge of energy. Chai is one of the most important elements of Pakistani life. When I was in Pakistan, there was a shortage of gas, and people were having trouble cooking food for their families. And yet, it was the lack of ability to boil the chai that led the men to the markaz (market square) to protest and burn tires to display their frustration! Chai is a MUST!

There are many idioms and proverbs about Chai in Pakistan.

زندگی وہی جیتے ہیں

جو چائے پیتے ہیں

Zindagi Wohi Jeete Hain

Jo Chai Peete Hain

"They live life,

Those who drink tea"

ایک مخلص دوست، چائے

اور دل کی ساری باتیں

Aik Mukhlis Dost, Chai

Aur Dil Ki Saari Baten

"A devoted friend, tea

And all matters of the heart"

And that famous quote from the book, "Three Cups of Tea":

"The first time you share a cup of tea, you are a stranger

The second time you share a cup of tea, you are an honored guest.

The third time you share a cup of tea, you are family."