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Mizoram

Puanchei: A Tapestry of Mizo Culture

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From the Land of Mystique and Splendor

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of India, lies the enchanting state of Mizoram or ‘the Land of the Mizo’. A land draped in mystique and adorned with the vibrancy of its people, Mizoram unveils a tapestry of culture, tradition and natural splendor that captivates the soul and ignites the imagination. In the heart of the state, where tradition weaves seamlessly with creativity, lies the alluring artistry of Puanchei.

A soulful expression of the Mizo women, Puanchei is a kind of shawl that is wrapped around the waist by tucking the opposite ends onto the side. A handwoven textile, Puanchei is woven by skilled artisans, and is an art that is passed down through generations. ‘Puan’ in Mizo means cloth, while ‘chei’ means to decorate. Puanchei, which is the traditional costume of Mizo women, is worn on special occasions such as weddings, festivals and ceremonies.

Weaving the Soul of Mizoram

The weaving of Puanchei is a laborious process that involves great skill and patience. While the primary material used for making these shawls is cotton, they can be woven in silk and other synthetic materials as well. While the earliest known ‘Puans’ were white in colour, over time and with the use of natural dyes, they came to be woven in different colours. Woven in three pieces, lengthwise, with the middle panel being the narrowest, Puancheis are usually teamed with the Kawrchei (a blouse). Tied around the waist, the Puancheis fall till the ankle. The intricate and colorful designs that adorn the Puanchei are inspired by nature, folklore and tribal motifs. One can find patterns of flowers, animals, birds or geometric outlines on these textile pieces. Siniar motif, a traditional motif made up of triangles, zig zag and diamond shapes, is used in majority of weaves. At times, the Siniar motif is used in combination with floral patterns to create intricate designs. Besides the Siniar motif, Hruih, a plain black stripe and the Sakri Zangzia, representative of the back of a tiger are also popular motifs used by the weavers.

A Symphony of Culture and Tradition

The Puanchei carries a symbolic and a deeper meaning for the Mizo people. Considered as a symbol of identity and status, it is a prized possession that is passed down from one generation to the next as part of the family heirloom. It is also popularly used as a gift item to show respect and honor to guests and dignitaries.

While traditionally most Puanchei shawls were made for the family’s own use, gradually, with the growing interest in handlooms and recognition of the diversity of cultural expressions in the Indian textile sector, the woven Puan fabric is now available in shops in Aizwal, both for locals as well as visitors. Even the range of products today has diversified with products like home linen, table runners, cushion covers and other accessories available in the local markets.


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The timeless charm of Puanchei Souvenirs

Visitors traversing through the highlands of Mizoram must explore the local markets for these handwoven textiles. Available in a wide range of products, there is something for everyone. Whether it is a souvenir for the self or a gift for a near and dear one, the Puanchei is a perfect purchase that will always remind you of this beautiful hill state. A symbol of Mizo identity, the weaving craft of Puanchei speaks volumes about the rich cultural heritage of Mizoram. It is indeed a testament to the enduring legacy of Mizo craftsmanship and the enduring spirit of creativity that thrives in the hills of Mizoram.