Introduction:
The concept of swaraj, meaning self-rule or self-governance, was a central idea in Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy. It emphasized the empowerment of individuals and communities to take control of their own lives and destinies. While Gandhi's idea of swaraj was primarily associated with the struggle for Indian independence from British colonial rule, it also resonated with various marginalized groups within Indian society, including plantation workers. This essay will explore how plantation workers had their own understanding of Mahatma Gandhi's idea of swaraj and its implications for their lives.

Plantation workers' perspective on swaraj:
1. Empowerment and autonomy: Plantation workers saw swaraj as a means to gain control over their own lives and work. They sought to free themselves from the exploitative practices of plantation owners and managers, and to have a say in the decision-making processes that affected them. Swaraj represented a collective struggle for economic and social justice.

2. Community solidarity: Plantation workers understood swaraj in terms of building strong and self-reliant communities. They recognized the importance of unity and cooperation among themselves to challenge the oppressive conditions they faced. Swaraj meant working together to improve their living and working conditions, as well as to preserve their cultural and social identity.

3. Non-violent resistance: Inspired by Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence, plantation workers embraced peaceful forms of protest and resistance in their pursuit of swaraj. They organized strikes, demonstrations, and boycotts to assert their rights and demand better treatment. Swaraj, for them, was not just about achieving political freedom but also about advocating for social justice through non-violent means.

Implications for plantation workers:
1. Economic empowerment: The notion of swaraj provided plantation workers with a sense of agency and the belief that they could improve their economic conditions. It encouraged them to explore alternative livelihood options, such as forming cooperatives or engaging in small-scale entrepreneurship, to reduce their dependence on plantation owners.

2. Self-reliance and sustainability: Swaraj also inspired plantation workers to adopt sustainable practices in agriculture and other aspects of their lives. They recognized the importance of preserving the environment and utilizing resources wisely to ensure long-term well-being. This led to the adoption of organic farming techniques and the promotion of traditional knowledge and practices.

3. Social and cultural preservation: Swaraj empowered plantation workers to assert their cultural and social identity. They took pride in their heritage and traditions, and actively worked towards preserving and promoting their cultural practices. Swaraj allowed them to challenge the dominant narrative imposed by the colonial rulers and assert their own voice and agency.

Conclusion:
Plantation workers had their own understanding of Mahatma Gandhi's idea of swaraj, which resonated with their experiences and aspirations. It provided them with a framework to challenge the exploitative conditions they faced and to strive for economic, social, and cultural empowerment. By embracing the principles of self-governance, community solidarity, and non-violent resistance, plantation workers sought to transform their lives and create a more just and equitable society. Gandhi's idea of swaraj served as a source of inspiration and empowerment for these marginalized groups, enabling them to envision a future where they could exercise control over their own destinies.

Workers too had their own understanding of Mahatma Gandhi and the notion of swaraj.

For plantation workers in Assam, freedom meant the right to moove freely in and out of the confined space in which they were enclosed.

It also meant retaining a link with the village from which they had come.

Due to the Inland emigration act of 1859, plantation workers weren't permitted to leave the tea gardens without permission.

The non cooperation movement gave them an opportunity to get rid of all the sufferings and troubles they had overcome in the past years.