| Sociable, hospitable
and fun-loving the Mizos are the finest choir singers in the
North East. Living in the heart of nature, being woken up
by bird song reflects their great affinity to the most attractive
features of the land in which they live. Every major village
has a YMA (Young Mizo Association) centre, dedicated to infuse
society with traditional Mizo lifestyle and customs. Some
of the most colourful aspects of this revival are witnessed
amongst the folk and community dances that have been handed
down from one generation to the next. They is reflected in
the important harvest festivals that are an intrinsic part
of Mizo culture.
Tlawmngaihn
is the code of ethics that guide the Mizos- it means everyone
should be unselfish, hospitable and helpful to each other.
The joyous movements of their dances and the spirited songs
are a deep reflection of their passion for this cultural
heritage. It is evident in the rich variety of their colourful
costumes. Mizoram's crafts, such as those in bamboo and
cane, are ingenuously creative to meet modern needs- but
remain rooted to its tradition.
Mizoram has 10 important dances that celebrate
life in all its richness with a delightful joie de vivre
that is so integral to the Mizo ethos. Amongst them are
Cheraw, Chai Lam, Solakia, Sralamkai, Khullam, Chamnaglaizem,
Zangtalam and Tlanglam. Its most important festivals, inspired
by its agricultural activities, are Chapchar Kut, Mini Kut
and Pawl Kut. These are accompanied by a rich repertoire
of singing and dancing amidst lavish feasts. Christmas and
New Year are celebrated here with great vigour.
With its galaxy of festivals and dances,
natural beauty and ancient traditions Mizoram is a kaleidoscopic
'pleasure trove' for the discerning visitor.
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