Khuallam, literally meaning the 'Dance of the Guests', is an important dance form of
Mizoram. It is performed on the occasion of Khuangchawi – the ceremony to earn the title 'Thangchhvah'. This ceremony is conducted to claim a distinguished place in the society and thereby have a place in heaven. During Khuangchawi, people invite relatives from nearby villages and the guests enter the arena dancing Khuallam. Both boys and girls participate in this dance. Puandum, a traditional Mizo costume with black, red and green strips, is wrapped around the shoulders while performance. Khuallam is performed by swaying the cloth and is played to the accompaniment of drums and a set of gongs known as Darbu. A unique feature of this dance is that no song is sung during the performance.
