The Cultural Heritage of Mizoram

Cultural heritage encompasses the inherited traditions, values, customs, and expressions that have been transmitted across generations and continue to be upheld by a society as part of its collective identity. It covers both tangible elements – such as artifacts, architecture, clothing, and cuisine – and intangible aspects like language, rituals, beliefs, and values. However, culture is not static; it evolves continually in response to historical events, social change, and external influences. Understanding a society’s culture is essential for comprehending its worldview, traditions, and social organization, making cultural knowledge a crucial tool for meaningful engagement and scholarly inquiry. This volume, The Cultural Heritage of Mizoram, explores the diverse elements of the evolving cultural landscape of the Mizos. It begins with a theoretical framing of culture and identity, examining how colonialism, Christianity, capitalism, and political movements have reshaped tribal and regional cultures in Mizoram and the wider Northeast.