Chapchar Kut: Vibrant spirit among the Mizo people

The Lushai people, commonly referred to as the Mizo, trace their lineage back to the enigmatic Chhinlung civilization, rooted deeply within the verdant landscapes of Mizoram in India, as well as the neighboring enclaves of Northeast India. Within the fabric of their existence lies a tapestry woven with threads of antiquity, each strand bearing the weight of centuries past, manifesting in their exquisite artistry, traditional attire, culinary prowess, cultural practices, and the tapestry of festivals that adorn their communal calendar. Among their resplendent festivities, one shines with unparalleled brilliance – ‘Chapchar Kut’. This vibrant celebration is a symphony of colors, a dance of jubilation that reverberates through the hills and valleys, echoing the exuberance of a people deeply connected to their heritage. Its origins, steeped in the mists of time, are believed to date back to a bygone era, perhaps nestled between the years 1450 and 1600 A.D., when legends mingled freely with reality, and tradition was the guiding light in the labyrinth of existence. Chapchar Kut is not merely a festival; it is a living embodiment of the Mizo spirit, a testament to their resilience, creativity, and zest for life. It is celebrated during the month of March after completion of their most arduous task of jhum operation i.e., clearing of remnants of cropland.

Young men and women performing dance during the festival,

Image from Wikimedia commons. 

The Mizo ancestors enjoyed leisure time after the farming season, often spending spring days hunting and fishing. According to Mizo legend it all started when one such day, the Chief of Suaipui led his village's men on a hunting expedition armed with muskets, spears, and daos, along with gunpowder made by village maidens. The expedition lasted days, until they exhausted their rice or bagged enough game. Villagers eagerly awaited their return for feasting and rejoicing, while maidens looked forward to crafting ornaments from the game's ivory, bones, and teeth. Housewives brewed rice beer in anticipation of the hunters' return. Unfortunately, upon their return, the chief and his hunters found themselves empty-handed, having been seemingly cursed by ill fortune. To mask their disappointment, the chief swiftly organized an impromptu feast, pooling together a fat pig and contributions of fowl from his companions. This resourcefulness turned their setback into a triumph, birthing the tradition of Chapchar Kut. Chapchar Kut, an annual festival, originated from this incident, marked by feasting and merriment. Over time, other villages adopted the tradition, adding their own unique elements.

Circular dance in Chapchar Kut, image from aizawl.nic.in

In ancient times, the Chapchar Kut festival extended over several days, meticulously planned at each stage. Day One: Pig slaughtering and feasting; Day Two: Family pig feast and community beer-drinking; Day Three: Traditional attire, dancing, and rice beer; Day Four: Mild rice beer served all day, with cultural performances; Day Five: Finishing all collected beer; Day Six: Rest day with no work or hunting permitted outside the village. Youth played a central role in both preparation and celebration, aiming to foster joy and unity while requiring the resolution of disputes beforehand. Abundant meat and homemade liquor ensured high spirits throughout, as villagers danced late into the night, embodying the festive spirit of Chapchar Kut in Mizo tradition. Notably, the festival's origin incident also introduced the tradition of contributing rice beer and food, including meat, for the festivities.

Chapchar kut festival, Image from aizawl.nic.in

Chapchar Kut, revered as a significant cultural heritage and a beloved festival, continues to thrive and be celebrated annually in the Month of March, predominantly in the State Capital. This tradition is diligently preserved, serving as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Mizo people. In contemporary society during Chapchar Kut festivities, participants enthusiastically partake in various activities such as vibrant dancing, entertaining skits, and captivating musical performances. These festivities not only serve as a platform for cultural expression but also as a means to foster camaraderie and strengthen the bonds within the community. Through the preservation and celebration of Chapchar Kut, the Mizo people uphold their cultural identity and pass down their cherished traditions to future generations.

 

-        Sumit Das

References:

1. LALTHANGLIANA, B (8 December 2023), ‘Culture and folklore of Mizoram’.
2. "THE ORIGIN OF THE CHAPCHAR KUT", mizoram.nic.in. Retrieved 28 February 2024.
3. "Mizoram all set for Chapchar Kut festival", Telegraph India (19 February 2018). Retrieved 1 March 2024.
4. "Egged on: Mizoram festival revives pre-Christian custom" Hindustan Times (8 March 2016), Retrieved 1 March 2024.