Khuallam is a Folk Dance form of Mizoram state of India. It is very important to the Mizo people and usually performed during the Khuangchawi ceremony and bears a religious significance. Khual means Guest and Lam means Dance and hence it is known as the Dance of the Guests.
It is believed that a soul after death goes to Heaven (Pialral) or Hell (Mitthi Khua) and a place in Heaven is achieved only after acquiring a title called Thangchhuah. This title is achieved only by mastering either Hunting or Dancing. Hunting and killing animals like Deer, Wild Boar, Bear, Viper, Hawk etc. is considered as a means of achieving this title. Similarly performing Dances and Feats are also considered qualifier for the title. A great warrior is also considered as suitable for the title Thangchhuah.
During the occasion of Khuangchawi ceremony, one has to invite his/her relatives and friends from neighbouring villages. These guests enter the area performing Khuallam. There are no songs accompanying this dance form. But sound of Gongs known as Darbu accompany the dance performance. The dancers wear special hand-woven traditional costumes called Puandum having red, black, yellow and green stripes. Performers wrap the Puandum over their shoulders. Every girl is supposed to carry this Puandam with her after getting married. In case she becomes a widow then the Puandum is used to cover the husband’s body.
