THINGYAN FESTIVAL (MYANMAR)
Thingtan festival
Every April, people in Myanmar celebrate Thingyan, also known as the Water Festival. Thingyan is a unique cultural tradition in Myanmar and is the most popular celebration in the country. This festivity lasts for four to five days and culminates with the New Year.
The concept of Thingyan originated from Hindu culture in India. It was brought to Myanmar by migrants during the Bagan Kingdom era in the 13th century. During Thingyan, people engage in water-throwing activities to symbolize washing away the past. Alongside these festivities, individuals strive to accumulate good karma for the new year by performing good deeds. This includes visiting temples and pagodas, making donations, and releasing captured fish and animals back into the wild. Women in Myanmar adorn their hair with padauk yellow flowers, which bloom around the time of Thingyan.
Traditional Thingyan Desserts
- Mont Loun Ye Baw: Rice balls filled with palm sugar.
- Shwe Yin Aye: Made with sweetened coconut milk.
- Mont Lat Sou: Made with palm sugar and coconut.
I have fond memories of the Water Festival in my life, especially when I traveled with my family for a vacation. We welcomed each other with water and embraced the arrival of the new year. The gentle breeze along the riverbanks created a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.
My birthday coincides with the Thingyan Festival on the 13th of April. I always look forward to celebrating it during the Water Festival. I absolutely love the festivities associated with Thingyan!
What about you? Do you like the Thingyan Festival?
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