Communication forms the foundation of human interaction, enabling the sharing of information and the transmission of symbolic meanings. Within public health, strong communication practices are vital for disease prevention, health promotion, emergency readiness, and the spread of governmental health programs and policies. This qualitative study examines the complexity of communication practices within the Katkari tribe, a minority community located in western Maharashtra, India. Drawing on anthropological perspectives, the research aims to understand the role of culture in shaping health communication within this group. The study objectives include identifying sources of health-related communication, analyzing communication patterns from a cultural standpoint, and recording barriers encountered in public health messaging. An inductive method of data analysis revealed key themes such as the role of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA), television, and social media in influencing health communication. Additional themes included the impact of media and technology on tribal health and lifestyle, challenges arising from gaps in understanding and behavioral response, linguistic barriers, social marginalization, deeply rooted misconceptions, cultural determinants of health behavior, and recommended strategies to address these issues. Enhancing health communication for tribal populations in India requires culturally appropriate methods, such as integrating traditional art forms and local artists, using multimedia channels like radio jingles and videos, providing incentives to healthcare workers, and applying visual materials in simplified language. Active participation of local communities is essential for the successful execution of health communication policies.
