Cultural Significance of Chin-Kuki-Mizo Dresses in Manipur

Abstract

The tribal arts and crafts of Manipur provide for the fascinating study of tribal culture. This is readily apparent in the crafts of the Chin-Kuki-Mizo tribes. It is an integral part and reflects every aspect of their culture. They have an independent existence which conditions their outlook towards Arts and Crafts by way of building their homes, household items, costumes, jewellery etc. These crafted objects are made of simple materials and though they are not designed in the most exotic and attractive manner, they are known for their ethnic authenticity. The production of crafts is an inherent practice common among the Chin-Kuki-Mizo tribes. They are not professionally trained or rely on hereditary talent and skill honed over generations. The leading forms of Chin-Kuki-Mizo arts and crafts include handloom and handicrafts like weaving, use of textiles, wood carving, basket weaving and jewellery made of beads, metals, ivory, wood etc. Dresses are the identity of every nation or tribe. For the Chin Kuki Mizo, "dresses are the unwritten constitution”. It is a symbol whereby a man's social status, culture can be determined. Every shawl and loin cloth is patterned with beautiful designs and chequered with different colours which have immense cultural significance. Their clothes are created from designs based on things they find in their surroundings, such as creatures, animals birds, rivers etc as well as in the myths of origin of the tribe concerned. There are shawls and loin clothes for every group of people; for the rich, married people, youth, aged, for the poor and even for children. There are also dresses for funerals. This article focuses on providing the significance and symbolism of material culture of the Chin-Kuki-Mizo tribe in relation to clothes.