Lawngtlai, April 17: The Chakma community of Mizoram celebrated the 4th State-Level Bizu Miloni (Bizu Festival) with great enthusiasm and cultural pride at Longpuighat in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) area from April 13 to 15, 2026. The three-day event brought together community leaders, public representatives, cultural performers, and residents from different parts of the state to mark the Chakma New Year and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Chakma people.
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| Artists perform a traditional cultural dance during the 4th State-Level Bizu Miloni festival at Longpuighat, celebrating the rich heritage of the Chakma community in Mizoram. |
Bizu, the most important traditional festival of the Chakma community, is observed annually in April and symbolizes the end of the old year and the welcoming of a new one. The festival is deeply rooted in Chakma customs and traditions and serves as an occasion for cultural celebration, community bonding, and spiritual reflection.
The three-day celebration featured the traditional observances of Phool Bizu, Mul Bizu, and Gossay Possay Bizu, each representing different stages of the New Year festivities. Throughout the event, participants took part in cultural programmes, traditional rituals, community gatherings, and various activities aimed at preserving and promoting Chakma identity and heritage.
The inaugural function was attended by Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah, MLA and Adviser to the Chief Minister of Mizoram, as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he appreciated the efforts of the Chakma community in preserving its unique cultural traditions and emphasized the importance of cultural diversity in strengthening social harmony and unity in Mizoram.
On the second day of the festival, Dangubi Prova Chakma, MLA, attended as the Chief Guest and highlighted the significance of Bizu as a symbol of cultural continuity and community solidarity. She encouraged younger generations to remain connected to their roots and actively participate in preserving traditional customs and values.
The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. Rasik Mohan Chakma, MLA and Chairman of the 4th State-Level Bizu Miloni, who commended the organisers and participants for the successful conduct of the event. He noted that festivals such as Bizu play a vital role in safeguarding cultural heritage and fostering a sense of identity among the community.
As part of the celebrations, traditional customs were observed, including cleaning homes and villages, preparing special Chakma dishes, participating in cultural games, and organizing social gatherings. Cultural performances featuring traditional music, dance, and folk traditions entertained participants and highlighted the artistic richness of the community.
Religious and spiritual activities also formed an integral part of the festival. Rituals such as offering flowers to rivers, lighting candles, visiting temples, and offering prayers for peace, prosperity, and well-being were carried out in accordance with traditional practices. Another meaningful aspect of the celebration involved youths symbolically bathing elderly community members, a gesture that reflects respect, gratitude, and care for elders.
The institutional celebration of Bizu at the state level in Mizoram began with the 1st State-Level Bizu Miloni held at Rajivnagar in Mamit district. Since then, the event has grown into an important platform for promoting and preserving Chakma culture and traditions.
The 2026 edition was organised by the 4th Mizoram State-Level Bizu Miloni Organising Committee, Longpuighat. Organisers said the festival successfully strengthened cultural awareness, encouraged community participation, and reaffirmed the importance of preserving the rich heritage of the Chakma people for future generations.
