Aizawl: Mizoram is preparing for the celebration of Chapchar Kut 2026, with the state government and civil society organisations organising a series of events, exhibitions and cultural activities ahead of the main festival on Friday.
Commerce, Industries, Geology and Mining Minister Pu F. Rodingliana inaugurated the "Handloom, Textiles, Handicrafts, Food Processing and Food Court" exhibition at Lammual Tlang as part of the pre-festival activities.
The exhibition, organised by the Chapchar Kut 2026 Organising Committee under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister, will run from March 9 to 13 and feature a wide range of stalls promoting local products and entrepreneurship.
The exhibition will include 68 handloom and textile stalls, 15 handicraft stalls, 12 food processing stalls and 35 food court stalls. There will also be stalls showcasing products under the PM Vishwakarma scheme and initiatives from Shakti Sadan.
The handloom exhibition has received support from the Development Commissioner (Handloom), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, which is providing marketing assistance to help promote traditional handloom products.
Food processing stalls are being supported under the MFME scheme, providing a platform for local entrepreneurs and small-scale producers to showcase their products.
Last year, the Chapchar Kut handloom exhibition recorded sales worth ₹128 lakh, reflecting the growing popularity and economic potential of Mizoram's handloom and handicraft sector. Exhibitors from across the state have also received training to improve product quality and expand market reach.
Meanwhile, the Central YMA, in collaboration with the Art and Culture Department, organised the Chapchar Kut Run, a pre-festival marathon starting from Sikulpuikawn and Chanmari and culminating at Lammual.
The run witnessed participation from members of the Aizawl City Branch of the Young Mizo Association (YMA) as well as local residents.
Addressing participants, Minister Lalthansanga said that Chapchar Kut represents the pride, resilience and unity of the Mizo people.
He said the festival not only celebrates tradition but also showcases the spirit of the Zo communities, their heritage and the strength of collective effort.
The minister added that Chapchar Kut also serves as a platform to promote Mizo values and encourage greater cultural awareness among the younger generation.
The main Chapchar Kut 2026 celebration will take place on Friday at Lammual, bringing together cultural performances, traditional sports and community gatherings for one of Mizoram's most important festivals.