Exploring the Role of Flowers in the Socio-Religious Context of Mizo Tribal Community

Abstract

Flowers are universally intertwined with religious and spiritual beliefs. The present study explore the relation between religion and flowers communicating feelings and emotions more profoundly than spoken words. The paper will delve into the indispensable role played by flowers in the social and religious context of Mizoram as well as the effort made by the government and Non- Governmental Organisation to support the floriculturists. Samples were taken from 153 floriculturists and 8 concerned government authorities using a purposive sampling technique, and a semi-structured interview schedule was administered for data collection. The research findings reveal that 63.4% agreed that bride price distribution and payment rituals should continue to include floral arrangements and venue decoration in the pre-nuptial ceremony. 86.9% states that churches in Mizoram sanctions funds for fresh flowers to adorn the church altar for the Sunday church service. The paper also looks into the role of the state government and the florist associations as Non-Governmental Organizations who acts as catalyst in augmenting entrepreneurship in floriculture in Mizoram.