The Hmaram, also known as Hmar-Am or Hmar Âm, is one of the most distinctive and ancient garments of the Hmar community. This beautiful handwoven skirt has long been regarded as a symbol of Hmar identity, craftsmanship, and tradition. Worn exclusively by women and girls, the Hmaram is traditionally a short, wraparound skirt reaching up to the knees. It is secured by tucking in one end at the waist, covering the lower body gracefully.
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| The two young women wear the traditional Hmaram, the iconic handwoven skirt of the Hmar people. Image Credit: sangsangiralte_ |
Originally, the Hmaram was woven entirely by hand using handspun cotton and dyed with natural indigo, giving it a rich black or deep blue colour. It is a single-loom-width fabric, relatively small in size compared to other Hmar textiles, yet rich in detail and meaning. The Hmaram is most commonly worn during festive occasions, cultural dances, and important social gatherings. In earlier times, it formed an essential part of a young woman’s attire during traditional celebrations, symbolizing beauty, skill, and belonging.
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The textile’s unique identity lies in its extra-weft woven designs - highly intricate patterns that demonstrate the mastery of Hmar weavers. Among these, the Kawkpui Zik Zie, and Lenbungthuom motifs are the most recognized and revered. The Kawkpui Zik Ziel (Kawkpui - the branches of which are intertwined, Zik is the upper part of the plant and Ziel means intertwined) is believed to be among the oldest known patterns of the Hmar, distinguished by its complexity and aesthetic balance. The Lenbungthuom motif, equally symbolic, takes inspiration from nature - specifically from the Lenbung tree (with acacia-like leaves) and the word ṭhuom, meaning a junction or crossing of paths. This design features triangular indigo-dyed motifs arranged in such a way that they appear like diverging pathways, representing life’s interconnected journeys.
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| Hmaram |
Historically, the Hmaram was more than a garment - it was a reflection of identity and heritage. Every motif woven into the fabric carried stories and beliefs passed down through generations. The use of indigo dye and cotton threads also reflects the Hmar people’s deep connection with their natural environment and their self-sustaining lifestyle. Skilled weavers, often women, passed their weaving techniques from mother to daughter, preserving this rich textile tradition for centuries.
Interestingly, the Hmaram is also mentioned in The Dictionary of the Lushai Language (1940) by Rev. J. Herbert Lorrain and Rev. F. W. Savidge, where it is described as “the name of a woman’s skirt or kilt, originally belonging to the Hmar tribe.” This early linguistic record underscores the deep historical roots and distinct cultural identity of the Hmar people, whose artistic expressions were recognized even in colonial-era documentation.
Today, while modern fabrics and fashion have influenced everyday wear, the Hmaram remains a proud emblem of Hmar cultural heritage. It continues to be worn during traditional festivals, folk dances, and community events, often paired with other traditional attire and ornaments. Its timeless beauty, meticulous craftsmanship, and meaningful motifs continue to fascinate both locals and outsiders, making it not just a garment, but a living piece of history.
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The Hmaram, originating from the hill regions of Manipur and surrounding areas, stands as a remarkable testament to the creativity, resilience, and artistic legacy of the Hmar people. More than a dance dress, it is a woven story of identity - one that connects the past and present through threads of tradition, artistry, and pride.
