There are several types of festivals among the Mizos, native people of Mizoram. Most of the festivals are celebrated in relation with their agriculture according to season, crops and stages of their jhum operation. Dance and music take a central position during the celebration of festivals. Some of the popular festivals of Mizoram are Chapchar Kut, Anthurium Festival, Thalfavang Kut, Mim Kut, Pawl Kut etc. Some of the festivals have been detailed in brief below.
Chapchar Kut
It is the most significant spring festival held in between the cutting of jungles and burning of jhums which is usually done in the last part of February and first part of March every year. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and splendor. The meaning of the term Chapchar Kut is cutting down of bamboo tree or other jungle tress and waiting for burning of jhum. The general belief of the Mizos behind the celebration of this festival is that it would yield a good harvest in their field.
Pawl Kut
The next festival Pawl Kut is celebrated during the month of September to January when rice harvest is almost reaped. This festival is also celebrated with much enjoyment and feasting. This festival is mainly for the children who dress themselves and feed on rice meat and boiled eggs.
Mim Kut
The following festival Mim Kut is held during the period of August to September when the maize harvest is reaped. This festival is also celebrated with much pomp and fun. They mainly consume rice-beer during the celebration.
Mithi-Rop Lam Feast
The Mizos also celebrate Mithi-rop lam (dance of the dead) feast. It is held in honour of the dead-members of a clan. They observe this occasion by keeping the effigies of the fore-fathers of various family members of the clan who are arranging the Mithi-rop lam feast. The respective descendants after the occasion take back the effigies after the dance and feast is over.
Anthurium Festival
It is a three day festival which takes place on the last week of September to celebrate the harvesting of flowers. This festival, celebrated at Reiek, is also known as the festival of flowers. This represents the rich culture and heritage of the state.
