In Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, the spring festival called Chapcharkut Festival, is celebrated every year on the first Friday of March with traditional songs and dances. This festival is the occasion that marks the preparation for the next cultivation season after the burning of forests as per Jhum cultivation tradition. Most of the participants are dressed in traditional Mizo outfits. The girls wear a long-sleeved ‘Puan’ and a crown-like ‘vakiria’ on their heads. Men can be seen sporting arrows, bows, shields and swords in their hands.
On the stage of the stadium, local folk songs are performed. At the centre of the field, short street dramas and the popular Mizo dance ‘Khuallam’ are also performed.
Sports, fun and entertainment that are integral to the traditional Mizo lifestyle are all reflected in this festival.