With its powerful arguments and compelling evidence, this groundbreaking book challenges the colonial narratives that have long perpetuated the belief that Mizo migration was a single, homogeneous movement. The author presents a new outlook on Mizo migration, highlighting that it was not a uniform movement but rather a multifaceted process involving different groups of people arriving in the region at various times and from diverse locations.

The author argues that Mizo people have lived in Mizoram since prehistoric times, and their folktales and collective memories corroborate this assertion. The dynamic process of Mizo migration formed an amalgamated, composite ethnicity group known as Mizo or Zofate.

The book paints a vivid picture of how people from various corners of the globe moved to this highland massif in waves, tracking long and exasperating routes. By providing a fresh perspective on Mizo migration, this book presents an alternative narrative that illuminates the rich history and culture of the Mizo people. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Mizoram and the indigenous peoples who have called it home for centuries.

Contents 

Acknowledgement

Chapter 1: Methodological Consideration

1.1. Objective of the Study
1.2. The Bone of Contention Concerning Colonial Constructs
1.3. Methodology

Chapter 2: Legends and Theories of Mizo Origin

2.1. Legends and Theories of Mizo Origin
   2.1.1. Chhinlung
   2.1.2. Thlanrawkpa Khuangchawi (Thlanrawkpa’s Feast of Merit)
   2.1.3. Historicization and Textualization of Orality in Relation to Mizo Myths

Chapter 3: Various Theories of Migration

3.1. Theories of Migration
       3.1.1. Ravenstein’s Theory of Migration
       3.1.2. Lee’s Theory of Migration
       3.1.3. Neoclassical Theory of Migration
       3.1.4. Historical Structural Theory of Migration
       3.1.5. Scott’s Theory of Evading Colonial State

3.2. Different Theories of Mizo Migration
       3.2.1. Westward Trajectory from China
       3.2.2. An Appraisal of Mizo Westward Migration from the Theory of Evading Colonial State by James C. Scott
       3.2.3. Tracing Lineage to Israel
       3.2.4. Eastward Migration from the West

3.3. Findings from Theories of Mizo Migration and Mobility

Chapter 4: Mizoram – an Ancient Capital of Mizo from Antiquity

Chapter 5: Concluding Evaluation

Bibliography

Rev. Dr. Lalfakawma Ralte is an Associate Professor of the Department of History of Christianity at United Theological College in Bangalore, India. He is also an ordained Minister of the Presbyterian Church of India (Mizoram Synod). His areas of interest include resistance, migration, revival, and indigenous studies. Previously, he worked as a Missionary Pastor in Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. Dr. Lalfakawma Ralte currently resides in Bangalore with his wife Mathani and their four daughters - Ainam, Zualtei, Felfeli, and Faith.