GI No. 583 – PAWNCHEI

Mizo Puanchei is the most colourful and popular among the Mizo Puan (Shawl/textile) and it is an essential possession for every Mizo lady. It is warpped around the waist by tucking in at the waist to fasten it, covering the lower part of the body. It is an important item in their marriage outfit, and the most commonly used costume in their festive dances and official ceremonies.

“Puanchei” is purely a Mizo word or language. It is a combination of two words ‘Puan’ which means ‘Cloth’ or ‘Garment’ and ‘Chei’ which means ‘decorate’ or ‘ornamented’. As this cloth or puan is beautifully designed and decorated it was named as `Mizo Puanchei’.

Mizo Puanchei is an elegant, colourful and beautifully designed traditional attire of the Mizo people. It is a cloth/skirt which is warped around the waist and is worn by women especially during festivals.