Bridging Cultures: Missionaries, Sports, and Social Change in Colonial Mizoram

Abstract

This article explores the transformation of games and sports and its implications on Mizo society during the colonial period using the voices of those who experienced this era first-hand. It examines how British arrival, establishment of education, and missionary initiatives reshaped Mizoram’s sports culture and the broader cultural and social dynamics associated with it. The narratives highlight the dual role of colonial influences and the adaptability of the native population in integrating new sports while preserving traditional Mizo games. Additionally, the article delves into the changing attitudes toward gender roles in sports, showcasing how these shifts established new societal norms. Drawing on oral histories and personal accounts, the study provides a nuanced understanding of the lasting impact of colonialism on Mizoram's sporting traditions and its role in shaping social and cultural identities.