February 27th commemorates the fifth anniversary of a day that many Pakistanis remember as “Tea is Fantastic” or “Surprise Day.”
While the cryptic name may not be familiar to everyone, it has a special significance in the country’s recent past.
This date marks the aerial encounter between the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the Indian Air Force in 2019, codenamed “Operation Swift Retort” by the PAF. Following the incident, Pakistani authorities apprehended Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman.
During his time in Pakistan’s custody, a video of Abhinandan drinking tea became popular on social media. Even in the midst of his capture, his laid-back manner and appreciation for the simple act of drinking tea struck a chord with many people.
The viral video, which showed Abhinandan’s adherence to the code of conduct and appreciation for Pakistani hospitality, resonated with the people. The hashtag “#TsFantastic” trended for 36 hours, emphasizing the unexpected turn of events and the resulting social media buzz.
The incident had an everlasting impact not just on military history, but also on the cultural landscape, emphasizing the importance of simple gestures in the midst of combat.
Even five years later, the memory of “Abhinandan’s tea” remains a topic of discussion in Pakistan and has received attention from worldwide media, marking a moment when diplomacy and hospitality crossed borders.
