The inhabitants of Mizoram are known as Mizos. Mizos are an ethnic group mostly seen in their bright and colourful traditional clothes and speak their own Mizo dialect. The Mizos are said to have migrated from Shinlung or Chhinlungsan located on the banks of the river Yalung in China.

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The fascinating feature of the Mizos is their ethical code; the “tiawmngaihna” which emphasizes each person to be kind, generous and hospitable to his peers irrespective of tribe, caste, or creed.

Mizo Tribes and Traditions

There are a number of tribes among the Mizos: Pawis, Lushais, Raltes, Paithes, Hmars, Pangs and Kukis. Mizos are devout Christians. Festivals like Chapchar Kut and Pawl Kut are celebrated with great enthusiasm, as performances of Bamboo dance and Cheraw dance regale the spectators. Traditional Mizo houses are made out of bamboo and covered with thatch roofs, and decorated with animal skulls. Above the fireplace of every kitchen a bamboo frame is hung to keep cooking ingredients such as dried chillies, dry fish, salt, etc.

Mizo Artisan Crafts

Weaving is a popular craft of the state. The Mizos are skilled in producing lovely fabrics, by turning simple raw materials into beautiful designs. Predominantly, loin-looms and fly shuttle loom are used for making fabrics.

Puan is one of the many traditional attires worn by the women. It is usually about 45-48 inches in width and about 36 inches in length. Puans are famous for their lovely patterns, numerous designs and intricate embroidery which are worked along with the weave. The traditional designs are now incorporated in new styles.  Puan Puanchei is generally worn by Mizo girls during festivals. The shades in the attire are black and white.