Chheih lam
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A lively dance of celebration in which dancers respond to songs (chheih hla) sung by a seated circle.
TribalWhere: MizoramOccasion: Evening gatherings and celebrations, including after a good hunt or harvest in the past; festivals today
| Performed by | Men and women |
|---|---|
| Costume | Everyday or festive Mizo dress, with the puan |
| Music and instruments | Chheih hla songs, with clapping and a drum |
How it is performed
- People sit in a circle and begin a chheih hla song, clapping to keep time.
- One or two dancers step into the middle and dance to the song.
- Singers make up lines about the dancers or the occasion, and the dancers reply with their moves.
- Others join in turns until the whole group is singing and dancing.
Significance
Chheih lam is a dance of joy and fellowship. Its spontaneous songs and humour bring people together at gatherings.