Tattoos popular among Mizo youngsters

Aizawl, Dec 10: The ancient Egyptian form of body art or tattoo has off late become very popular in Mizoram.

The modern version of tattoo tradition is not only popular among the youngsters but also attracts people from all age groups.

As the X-mas mood is in the air, tattoos play an important role as Mizos throng to tattoo parlours for new designs.

''Tattoos are no longer limited to the rough and rowdy people.

With the growing popularity of tattoos among young people, it is vital that we develop a better understanding of this form of self- expression'', Lalianzuala Sailo, the owner of the popular 'Gold finger tattoo parlour' told UNI.

''Tattoo culture is not only fashion among the city population but also among the rural part of the state'', Sailo added.

The 59-year-old tattoo artist added that a tattoo on the arm, near the shoulder blade, collar bone, around the navel, way down the back or on the ankle are popular now-a-days.

Apart from Holy Cross, the tribal symbols, sun, flames, dolphins, butterflies, sharks, zodiac signs, dragons, Chinese symbols and hearts are some of the common patterns, he said adding arms and the upper back are favourite spots for the guys to have tattoos while girls prefer to have their lower back or navel tattooed.

Sharing his experience, Sailo said ''In my parlour most of boys and girls prefer their lover's photo or name to be tattooed while the middle aged people mostly like tribal designs.

''Five people on an average comes daily to my shop with specific designs in their mind,'' Sailo, who took the tattoo profession during early 80s,' said.

UNI