The state of Assam is known for its scenic beauty and lush green tea plantations. Thousands of people in the state have been employed by the tea industry, which has been one of the main contributors to the state's economy. An integral part of this industry is the tea tribes of Assam, who have played a major role in its development.

The Tea Tribes of Assam are a group of people who were brought to the state by the British colonial administration from various parts of India, mainly from the present-day states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha, to work in the tea plantations. The term "Tea Tribes" refers to the different tribal and non-tribal communities who were brought to Assam for this purpose.

The Tea Tribes comprise several sub-communities, including the Adivasis, Santhals, Oraons, Mundas, Kharias, and others. The Tea Tribes have a rich and vibrant culture, which is reflected in their music, dance, food, and traditional attire.Throughout their generations, their culture has evolved and is a blend of their indigenous traditions and the cultural practices of the regions from which they were brought.

Music and dance are an integral part of the Tea Tribes' culture. They have a rich tradition of folk music, which is characterized by the use of traditional instruments like the dhol, flute, and mandar (maadal). The Tea Tribes have several folk dances, each with its own unique style and steps. Some of the popular dances include the Jhumur, Santhal, and Oraon.

They have a unique cuisine, which reflects their diverse cultural roots. The cuisine is characterized by the use of local ingredients like rice, fish, meat, and vegetables. The Tea Tribes also have their own indigenous alcoholic beverage, known as handia (/haria), which is made from rice and fermented in earthen pots.

There is a distinctive style of clothing that reflects the cultural roots of the Tea Tribes, which is colorful.The women wear a saree and a blouse, while the men wear a lungi and a shirt. They also wear traditional jewelry like bangles, necklaces, and earrings, which are made from silver, beads, shells, and other materials.

Religion plays a significant role in the Tea Tribes' culture, and they follow different faiths like Hinduism, Christianity, and tribal religions. They have their own traditional beliefs and practices, which are deeply rooted in their indigenous traditions.

In addition to traditional storytelling, the Tea Tribes have several folk tales and legends that have been passed down from generation to generation.These stories reflect their cultural heritage and offer insights into their indigenous beliefs and practices.

The Tea Tribes of Assam have a rich and diverse culture, which is a blend of their indigenous traditions and the cultural practices of the regions from where they were brought to Assam. Their culture is reflected in their music, dance, food, and traditional attire, and is an integral part of the state's cultural heritage. By recognizing and promoting their culture, we can ensure that the Tea Tribes are given the respect and dignity that they deserve as citizens of India.

However, the Tea Tribes have also faced several challenges over the years. They have been subjected to exploitation and discrimination by the tea garden owners, who have often denied them basic rights like education, healthcare, and adequate living conditions. The Tea Tribes have also been victims of social exclusion and have been treated as second-class citizens.

Various government and civil society organizations have been working to improve the living conditions and overall welfare of the Tea Tribes in recent years.Education and skill development programs are among the basic amenities that are being provided, such as housing, sanitation, and healthcare.Furthermore, initiatives have been implemented to promote the participation of women from the Tea Tribes in decision-making processes.