Nestling in the southern tip of the northeast, Mizoram is a mesmerizing state in India that is engulfed with mighty mountains enveloped with verdant forests. Known for thick bamboo groves beaming with amazing wildlife, sheer cliffs and breath-taking waterfalls, this enchanting land of the Highlanders and the Mizos is a wonderful tourist destination in India that has a plethora of options to explore. Also ranking on the list of the most literate state, Mizoram scores as one of the finest places to visit in India. Quite an idyllic state, it carries the legacy of an upscale historical and cultural heritage. Aizawl is the capital, the city has managed to maintain virginity as this side of India stays less-explored. With an array of rugged terrains and gurgling rivers, Mizoram offers a plethora of options for nature lovers and adventure junkies.
History of Mizoram
Independent India saw the emergence of the Lushai Hills district under the Government of Assam in 1947. The district became a union territory in 1972 known as Mizoram, which became a full-fledged federal state in 1986. Like most of the northeastern states of India, Mizoram was within Assam until 1972, post which, it became a union territory. It became the 23rd state of India, a step above Union Territory, on 20 February 1987, with the Fifty-Third Amendment of the Indian Constitution, 1986. 18th and 19th Century history of the Mizos is marked by many instances of tribal raids and retaliatory expeditions of security. Mizo Hills were a component of the British-India because of a proclamation in 1895. North and south hills were united into Lushai Hills district in 1898 with Aizawl as its headquarters.
Five major tribes and eleven minor tribes comprise the Mizos, under the common name of Awzia. The five major tribes are- Lushei, Ralte, Hmar, Paihte, Pawi (or Poi). Though their respective dialects were maintained intact, the remaining eleven minor tribes lost their original dialects as a result of getting diluted with the larger tribes. The original Mizos who migrated to India were referred to as Kukis, followed by the second batch of immigrants, called New Kukis. The Lushais were the last batch of the Mizo tribes to migrate to India. As the North-Eastern Reorganisation Act was implemented in 1972, Mizoram emerged as a Union Territory and as a sequel to the signing off of the historic settlement agreement between the Government of India and the Mizo National Front in 1986, it was granted statehood on 20 February 1987.
Culture of Mizoram
The Mizos are one amongst the important hill tribes within the Indian subcontinent. Their cultural beliefs and values have given them a definite Mizo identity. Their vibrant culture of Mizoram is depicted through the traditional attires worn by Mizoram women, called the 'Puan'. Beautifully intricate design with an ideal fit makes it the foremost sought-after dress for the people of Mizoram. Mizo literature is scripted in Mizo tawng that is considered as the principal language of the state.
This language is developed mainly from the Lushai language, with significant influence from Pawi, Paite and Hmar languages. Musical instruments such as the drums, gong and other native percussion instruments such as marimba, conga, etc are quite prevalent in Mizoram. Culture of Mizoram also focuses on different dance forms like Cheraw, Khuallam, Chailam, Sarlamkai. Traditional festivals in Mizoram revolve around the different stages of Jhum cultivation or the seasons. Chapchar Kut, Thalfavang Kut, Mim Kut and Pawl Kut are a variety of the key kuts. In all, the Mizo culture is an amalgamation of festivity, celebration, liveliness, kinship, merriment, and above all, preserving the ethnicity of tribal community that is fundamentally entrenched.
Art and Handicraft of Mizoram
Art and handicraft of Mizoram is a significant sector of the industrial market in the state. Bamboo, textiles, cane works, and basketry are some of the renowned handicrafts of Mizoram that are beautifully crafted into fine pieces of furniture and commercial items. The womenfolk of the northeastern region such as Champhai, Serchhip and Siaha are associated with weaving. Some of the souvenirs from Mizoram include puanspuon dum, puon pie, thangou puon, jawl puon, hmarm, puon laisen, thangsuo puon and zakuolaisen, bamboo and cane products such as jewellery. Basketry is also an important art and craft form that has gained predominance in this northeast Indian state.
Canes, used in the preparation of hats and baskets of varied shapes and sizes are very popular in this state of India. These multi-purpose baskets are useful for storing clothes, grains, vegetables, firewood, ornaments and other valuable items. Fibres and leaves are also quite popular in this state. The handcrafted items of the region are exquisite, eco-friendly and also pocket-friendly.
Food of Mizoram
India is the land of diverse and delectable cuisines and the food of Mizoram is one of the unique blends of North Indian and Chinese elements, both in vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Following the traditional customs, the food is served on banana leaves. Good quantities of fish and bamboo are usually used in preparing these dishes. Some of the mouth-watering delicacies from Mizoram include:
- Bai – Usually considered a soup before the main course, it is prepared using a lot of locally available herbs and spices, pork, bamboo shoots and steamed vegetables.
- Koat Pitha – A fried dish made from rice flour and bananas, is an ideal snack for tea-time. Though it is crispy from the outside, it is soft and warm from inside. Usage of banana gives it a sweet taste.
- Bamboo Shoot Fry – A light dish made from bamboo, shitake mushrooms, vegetables and some herbs.
- Panch Phoran Tadka – A vegetarian or non-vegetarian dish made from brinjal, pumpkins and potatoes is spiced up perfectly.
- Chhum Han – Famous vegetarian dish made with broccoli, cabbage, carrots and other steamed veggies along with a bit of ginger and tomatoes.
- Misa Mach Poora – A mouth-watering side dish made from grilled shrimp, prepared in lemon juice, mustard oil, orange zest and assorted spices.
Things to do in Mizoram
Mizoram is certainly every traveller’s dream destination. The unique culture, food and ethnicity of these places make it one of the favourite destinations in the history of Indian tourism. November to March are the ideal months to visit this site with temperatures ranging from 11-30 degree celsius. Some of the important places to visit in Mizoram, that will make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated are:
- Aizawl – Its capital, the most popular town
- Tamdil Lake - A picturesque destination
- Serchhip – Rural colourful extravaganza
- Champhai – The Adventure Hub
- Saiha – Known for the elephant’s tooth
- Reiek – A destination in which one can bask in the sunlight
- Dampa Tiger Reserve – To venture into the Wild
- Kolasib – A riverside vacation
- Hmuifang – Provides a cultural exposition
So, when you plan your trip next, Mizoram will be your much-desired destination in India. Savour the beauty of natural splendours and immerse yourself in tranquillity in a land that offers spellbinding and captivating vistas.
