Mizoram is one of the most beautiful states in northeastern India. It is a land of seven sisters with picturesque views and fantastic weather. Unlike the other northeastern states, Mizoram stands high in terms of its cultural and religious values. The traditional dress of Mizoram is no less and different than its sister states. The beautiful colors, exceptional designs, and alluring patterns have won millions of hearts. Here are some of the traditional dresses worn by both men and women in Mizoram.
Traditional Dress of Mizoram Men
Men in Mizoram live a simple yet fulfilling life. They generally dress up in a single long piece of attire. It measures about 7 feet long and 5 feet wide. This cotton cloth is draped by holding one corner in the left hand, and the fabric is then passed to the left shoulder. Bands of red and white stripes give a classy look to the dress. During winter, men wear an extra fabric to cover their upper body paired with a simple white coat. In the summer, they prefer wearing small clothes around their waist region. This attire is paired with a turban to protect their head from scorching heat.
Traditional Dress of Mizoram Women
1. Puan and PuanChei paired with Kawrchei
Puan is among the popular traditional dresses for women in Mizoram. Puan is a drape-around skirt with shades of white, black, and red. The black shades are made of synthetic fur. It is beautifully hand-woven and carefully designed for special occasions. Puan Chei is worn while performing traditional dance forms and during weddings. It is a two-piece cloth comprising a long skirt paired with a ‘Kawrchei. The ‘Kawrchei’ is a charming blouse made of unique cotton, handmade by hand. They come in a chequered design and are bright in color. However, due to modernization, these blouses and dresses are made in factories using high-quality fabrics.
2. Zakuolaisen and Puon pie
Zakuolaisen is a traditional dress worn by the unmarried girls of Mizoram. It is an elegant blouse with crimson-coloured strips on it. On the other hand, puon pie is a traditional woven dress specially made for married women. Many people consider wearing this dress mandatory due to their religious beliefs.
3. Mnai and Rikatouh
Mnai is a traditional dress of the Riang tribal community of Mizoram. It is a long cotton cloth wrapped around the waist portion. At the same time, Rikatouh is a colorful fabric of vivid colors worn on the upper body that syncs with the attire.
4. Chapchur kut and Pawl kut attires
Chapchur kut is a traditional dress like a long white gown with red, white, black, and yellow stripes. This beautiful dress is adorned with headgear comprising feathers attached to a stick. Pawl kut attires is an exceptional attire named after the Pawl festival of Mizoram.
Exclusive traditional dress of Mizoram couple
1. Ngotekherh puan
Ngotekherh puan is a classic shawl with a white base and two narrow black strips on the edges. This traditional dress is unisex and can be worn by both men and women. It is designed with proper measurements and precision on a lion loom. The weavers must maintain modern standards to keep a uniform design along the puan. This contemporary design incorporates red and white strips that look lavish. Such innovations have caught the eyes of the outside market, and they are eager to buy this traditional dress of Mizoram.
2. Hmaram
This clothing belongs to the famous Hmars tribe in Mizoram. They are weaving experts who make traditional hand-woven clothing with this unstitched dress material. It is an Indigo-coloured cloth that both men and women can wear.
3. Chyna hno puan and Thangou Puon
Cyhna hno puan is made of silk clothing with beautiful embroidery. It enhances the beauty of the wearer with its color design and style. Thangou Puon is a traditional costume worn by the Paiteis tribes. These tribes are recognized for their unique and attractive attire.
Conclusion
Mizoram’s cultural tradition and attires are proof of the state’s rich, diversifying heritage. The intrinsic patterns, artistic designs, and bright colors show that the Mizoram people are deeply connected to their roots. Visiting this beautiful state will help cherish their tradition and inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts.
