Cheraw: Bamboo Dance

The video is a recording of a Cheraw performance. The Cheraw or bamboo dance is a traditional dance of Mizoram. It is considered to be one of the oldest dances of Mizoram. The dance is believed to have emerged out of a ritual. In this dance form, bamboos are kept in horizontal or cross formation on the ground. Pairs of these bamboo staffs are held by six to eight people. The male dancers move these bamboos to a rhythmic beat while the female dancers move gracefully while stepping in and out of the bamboo formations. The bamboos are clapped together by the male dancers to a specific beat. The clapping produces a sharp sound which is used as a marker to maintain rhythm and timing of steps. The dancers are attired in colourful traditional costumes like the thihna, vakiria, kawrchei and puanchei.