Question

why is plucking of tea leaves entrusted generally to women

Answer 1

The Sivasagar district of Assam is dominated by tea gardens, which are locally known as bagans. Historically, this district has always had tea gardens and tea garden companies. My interest in Sivasagar district stems from the stark class difference and thereby the relationship of subordination and superiority that is visibly noticeable within the borders of the tea garden. I have always been intrigued by the distinctions of ‘race’ that I saw while growing up. These distinctions also seem to be markers for ‘racialised’ labour within the tea gardens. The site of the tea garden itself is a distinct space, seemingly stuck in time and thereby seen as a remnant of a colonial past. Having seen the tea garden in close proximity, it continues to present to me an interesting site of study.