The tea industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to two visionary entrepreneurs from Assam—Anshuman Bharali and Upamanyu Borkakoty. Their company, The Tea Leaf Theory (TTLT), is redefining tea drinking with Woolah, a groundbreaking brand that introduces the world’s first bagless tea dip. Their mission is to create a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional tea bags while uplifting rural communities.
The Birth of Woolah: A Sustainable Solution
After spending four years in corporate jobs in Delhi, childhood friends Borkakoty and Bharali returned to their roots in Assam—a major tea-producing region. Their goal was to create a sustainable market for local farmers and specialty teas from Northeast India. Collaborating with farmers from Assam, Darjeeling, and Meghalaya, they sought to innovate the traditional tea-drinking experience.
Their solution was Woolah’s TrueDips, an eco-friendly tea dip made of compressed tea leaves tied with a naturally grown cotton string. This innovative tea dip is completely plastic-free, addressing concerns over microplastics found in conventional tea bags. Each Woolah tea dip consists of two compressed leaves and a bud, shaped into a cylindrical form, capable of brewing up to four cups of tea while enhancing the flavor profile.
Supporting Organic Farmers
Woolah’s commitment extends beyond innovation—it is about creating a value-driven ecosystem. The brand actively supports organic farmers by:
- Encouraging tea cultivation without harmful chemicals.
- Enabling farmers to earn up to seven times more.
- Helping them establish micro-factories, making them independent tea producers.
- Promoting higher adoption of sustainable farming practices.
By building sustainable systems, Woolah ensures that local farmers benefit financially while preserving the environment.
Empowering Rural Women
Women form the backbone of Woolah’s initiative. Many socially and economically disadvantaged women from rural Assam now find employment at Woolah’s workstations. The impact of this initiative is profound, as it allows them to:
- Earn a stable livelihood with fair wages.
- Contribute financially to their families.
- Afford education for their children.
- Experience financial independence and social empowerment.
Through their work at Woolah, these women are transforming their lives, gaining mobility, and becoming financially self-sufficient.
A Step Towards a Greener Future
Woolah’s innovation not only enhances the tea-drinking experience but also addresses pressing environmental concerns. With their 100% biodegradable tea dips, Bharali and Borkakoty are leading the charge in making tea consumption more sustainable. Their efforts are not just about a product—they are about fostering a community of responsible consumers, ethical farmers, and empowered workers.
With Woolah, tea lovers can now enjoy their favorite beverage while contributing to a greener planet and a fairer society. The future of tea is sustainable, and Woolah is brewing the change.