The traditional repertoire of festival and folk and community dances offer visitors a delightful insight into the tribal heritage of Mizo culture in all its richness and variety. Surprisingly, some of the most popular dances the Cheraw (bamboo dance), Khuallam, Solakia and Chheih Lam were never created for stage- rather they evolved out a spontaneous community spirit and participation.

Chapchar Kut (March) is the 3-day spring festival marked by singing and dancing and festive costumes by the tribals. Mim Kut (August/September) and Powl Kut (December) are harvest festivals.

Chapchar Kut

Some of the most colourful renditions of the traditional Chapchar Kut (Spring Festival) are the ones organized by the Young Mizo Association (YMA) which has spearheaded the revival of old cultural traditions in Mizoram. Each major village has a YMA branch so its is possible to time a trip to watch this famous festival in all its traditional pageantry. The seven-day festival is usually held in March. This is when visitors get to see the local people in their rich ceremonial costumes- The traditional dresses, the jewellry, the exotic headdress and weapons worn by the representatives of the each tribes showcases the most colorful aspects of Mizo culture in the finest tradition. Kut Puipate is the inaugural ceremony, which is followed by the Then Katna when the dancers get ready for the performance. The most important dance on the programme is the famous Cheraw or bamboo dance.