Chapchar Kut literally means a festival held during the period when bamboo and trees have been cut down and left to dry to prepare for jhumming, burning a patch of forest, which is then cultivated with the onset of the rains. During this brief lay-off period, the Mizo ancestors had much time for themselves, so they spent their leisure time hunting game, fishing, etc. The festival was initially characterised by abundant supply of meat and home-brewed liquor. The modern version of Chapchar Kut, however, has done away with the booze. Mizoram has been a dry state for years and the Young Mizo Association, which is combating drug and alcohol this year, are one of the organisers of Chapchar Kut. The two-day festival involves traditional dances, music and local food.