Leaves #6
170 x 240 mm, 40 pages
New York, US
First published 2024
Biannual
Founder: Arjun Narayen
Editor: Aliza Abarbanel
Art director: Lynn Nakamura
Leaves is a biannual zine–style publication from small–batch tea brand Raazi Tea, featuring tea inspired short stories, interviews and illustrations, tastefully curated by Aliza Abarbanel, editor of Cake Zine, a link that is clear in the format and make-up of Leaves. Each issue encourages readers ‘to slow down, be present, and take in a quiet reflection, perhaps alongside a cup of tea.’
Inside this sixth edition—themed ‘Spirit’—Smita Satiani explores the invisible journey of tea from source to cup, from the slopes of Darjeeling, the Assam valleys or Nilgiri Mountains, and addressing ‘ghosts of empire, labour and landscapes’ that prevail within the industry; Tushar Varma recalls her upbringing of domestic rituals, particularly her mother’s afternoon chai, sharing how she honed her ability to craft the tea to perfection, accompanied by a recipe for readers; and Kiana Mickles recalls a series of encounters with the South American plant yerba mate—‘The Yerb’ among friends—from the ‘White Label Mate’ of New York nightlife to infamous Berlin brand ‘Club Mate’.