Chapchar Kut

Apart from a deep zest for life, the other important aspect of Mizo traditions is agriculture. A lot of the general populace is involved in slash-and-burn or "jhum" cultivation. These agriculture cycles and seasons deeply define the yearly calendars of the Mizos and inspire their festivals and celebrations. Although, after Christianity was adopted widely in the State, the drinking of rice beer at these festivals was discontinued. However, recently, efforts have been made to revive these older traditions and festivals, specially the annual Chapchar Kut. Cultivation cycles are at the centre of this festival. Shifting or "jhum" cultivation is practiced here in which clearings are made in forest land and the felled trees and shrubs are left to dry under the Sun for burning purposes. "Chapchar" refers to this period in the cultivation cycle. This gives the farmers some rest and respite and they use this time to celebrate the Chapchar Kut festival. It is also a time when the warm weather slowly makes its presence felt, replenishing nature and providing fresh breeze. Age no bar, and dressed in colourful finery, the Mizos celebrate with much abandon.