The Mara (, ; , ), also historically known as Lakher, are an ethnic group native to Mizoram, India, and Chin State, Myanmar.
Ethnonyms
While the community refers to themselves as
Maras, various exonyms have been used by neighbouring tribes and colonial authorities. The
Lusei people referred to them as
Lakher. Early British records called them
Shendu before adopting the Lushei term.
Geography
Maraland is divided between India and Myanmar, straddling the international border.
West Maraland
West Maraland lies in
Mizoram, India. It constitutes a distinct administrative region with its own
Siaha district and enjoys autonomy through the Mara Autonomous District Council.
East Maraland
East Maraland is located in
Chin State, Myanmar. It is divided into two main areas: Thantlang District (locally known as "Chha Mara") and
Matupi Township ("Fei Mara").
History
Early migrations
The Mara people are believed to have migrated from the north, driven southward by pressure from the east. They initially settled between Leitak and Leisai, eventually crossing the
Kaladan River and establishing a settlement in Phusa in the
Lushai Hills. From Phusa, they moved to Beukhi, where two subgroups—the Siaha and Saiko Tlongsais—emerged, each establishing new settlements named
Siaha and Serkawr, respectively.
It is estimated that the Mara have been settled in the Lushai Hills for approximately 300 to 400 years.
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