Mara people
The Mara (Lakher) are an ethnic group of Mizoram, India and Myanmar. They refer to themselves as "Maras".[1] The Maras are related to Mizos, Kuki and Ranglong in India and Kachin, Karen, and Shan in Myanmar. They constitute a distinct tribal group in the Siaha / Saiha district of Mizoram, while also occupying the northern part of Paletwa township and Matupi township, western and southern part of Thlantlang township, and the southern part of Hakha township.
| Regions with significant populations | |
|---|---|
 India (Mizoram) and Myanmar | |
| Languages | |
| Hindi and Burmese language | |
| Religion | |
| Donyi-Polo (sun and moon), Hinduism, Christianity |
Another names
They have gone by a number of tribal names to the outside world. The Mara were earlier known as Magha, Miram, Baungshel, Maring, Zyu or Zao/Zho, Khuangsai. Additionally they were known as Lakher by the Tlaikao/Lushai, Miram by the Lai, and Shendu by the Khumi, Dai, Shô, Matu, and Rakhaing people. The new name Mara was added to the List of Scheduled Tribes in Mizoram state in 1978, replacing the old name.
Distributions
They live in different areas of Mizoram state. Significant numbers of Maras also live in the southwestern and south-central parts of Chin State (Burma) in Myanmar - the contiguous area of Mara area in India mostly separated by Kolodyne / Chhimtuipui / Beino river, which forms an international boundary.
References
- Dr K. Zohra, Ph.D, An introductory notes to Mara District of South Mizoram, India.
