The Pyu era, spanning from the 2nd century BCE to the 9th century CE, was a golden age in Myanmar’s history, marked by the rise and prosperity of the Pyu city-states. These early civilizations, flourishing in present-day central Myanmar, were not only pioneers of urban culture but also masterful creators of art, particularly in sculpture. The artistic legacy of the Pyu offers a fascinating glimpse into their religious devotion, societal structure, and aesthetic sensibilities.
The Pyu era, spanning from the 2nd century BCE to the 9th century CE, was a golden age in Myanmar’s history, marked by the rise and prosperity of the Pyu city-states. These early civilizations, flourishing in present-day central Myanmar, were not only pioneers of urban culture but also masterful creators of art, particularly in sculpture. The artistic legacy of the Pyu offers a fascinating glimpse into their religious devotion, societal structure, and aesthetic sensibilities.
Myanmar took great strides to secure international recognition for its three ancient Pyu cities—Halin, Beikthano (Vishnu), and Sriksetra—culminating in their designation as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them, Sriksetra stands as the heart of Pyu artistic expression, where a remarkable collection of sculptures and architectural wonders still whisper the stories of a bygone era. With the arrival of Buddhism, artistic production in the Pyu cities flourished, leaving behind an enduring visual culture that reflects their deep spiritual beliefs.
This study delves into the different types of Pyu pagodas, aiming to preserve the historical significance of these ancient structures for future generations. A descriptive approach is used to illustrate the forms of Pyu-era pagodas, while an analytical method is employed to classify their distinctive architectural styles, particularly those found in Sriksetra. The pagodas and stupas of the Pyu period, scattered across the ancient landscape, exhibit diverse designs—cylindrical stupas, round stupas, and temple structures—all of which have been meticulously examined in this research.
By tracing the evolution of Pyu pagodas, we uncover their deep-rooted influence on the architectural marvels of the later Bagan era. These early masterpieces serve as the precursors of Myanmar’s grand pagodas, bridging the artistic heritage of the Pyu civilization with the timeless elegance of Bagan’s temple city. Through this exploration, we reaffirm the enduring significance of Pyu art and architecture, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and captivate generations to come.
Influences and Themes
The Pyu sculptural tradition was deeply influenced by Indian art, particularly from the Gupta and post-Gupta periods. Buddhism played a central role in Pyu society, which is reflected in their sculptures' predominant themes. Statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and various deities were commonly created, often displaying characteristics of early Southeast Asian Buddhist art. Hindu influences were also present, as seen in sculptures depicting Vishnu, Shiva, and other Hindu deities.
Materials and Techniques
Pyu sculptors primarily worked with stone, bronze, and terracotta. Stone sculptures, often crafted from sandstone, were used to create large statues and relief carvings found in temples and stupas. Bronze casting was another prominent technique, used to produce intricate Buddha images and ritual objects. Terracotta plaques adorned temple walls, featuring scenes from Jataka tales and other religious motifs.
Iconography and Styles
Pyu sculptures exhibit a blend of indigenous and foreign styles. The Buddha statues from this era are characterized by serene expressions, elongated earlobes, and draped robes, reflecting Indian artistic traditions. Some sculptures display stylistic similarities with the Amaravati and Gupta schools of art, evident in the soft modeling of figures and elegant poses. However, local adaptations can be observed, particularly in facial features and decorative elements, which distinguish Pyu art from its Indian counterparts.
Notable Discoveries
Significant archaeological findings related to Pyu sculpture art have been unearthed in ancient Pyu cities such as Beikthano, Halin, and Sri Ksetra. Bronze Buddha images, intricately carved stone reliefs, and terracotta votive tablets are among the most notable discoveries. These artifacts are now preserved in museums, including the National Museum of Myanmar, offering a glimpse into the artistic sophistication of the Pyu civilization.
Legacy and Influence
The artistic legacy of the Pyu era laid the foundation for later Burmese art, particularly in the Pagan (Bagan) period. Many stylistic elements introduced during the Pyu era continued to evolve, shaping the artistic traditions of Myanmar for centuries. The sculptures of this ancient civilization not only serve as a testament to their artistic prowess but also provide crucial historical and cultural insights into early Myanmar.
In conclusion, the sculpture art of the Pyu era represents a rich blend of indigenous creativity and external influences. As archaeological research continues, further discoveries may shed even more light on the artistic achievements of this fascinating period in Myanmar's history.
Reference - The Artistic Monuments of Pyu in Ancient Sriksetra by Khaing Khaing Saw
- https://www.metmuseum.org/
- https://www.originalbuddhas .com/
Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News)
The Pyu era, spanning from the 2nd century BCE to the 9th century CE, was a golden age in Myanmar’s history, marked by the rise and prosperity of the Pyu city-states. These early civilizations, flourishing in present-day central Myanmar, were not only pioneers of urban culture but also masterful creators of art, particularly in sculpture. The artistic legacy of the Pyu offers a fascinating glimpse into their religious devotion, societal structure, and aesthetic sensibilities.
Myanmar took great strides to secure international recognition for its three ancient Pyu cities—Halin, Beikthano (Vishnu), and Sriksetra—culminating in their designation as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them, Sriksetra stands as the heart of Pyu artistic expression, where a remarkable collection of sculptures and architectural wonders still whisper the stories of a bygone era. With the arrival of Buddhism, artistic production in the Pyu cities flourished, leaving behind an enduring visual culture that reflects their deep spiritual beliefs.
This study delves into the different types of Pyu pagodas, aiming to preserve the historical significance of these ancient structures for future generations. A descriptive approach is used to illustrate the forms of Pyu-era pagodas, while an analytical method is employed to classify their distinctive architectural styles, particularly those found in Sriksetra. The pagodas and stupas of the Pyu period, scattered across the ancient landscape, exhibit diverse designs—cylindrical stupas, round stupas, and temple structures—all of which have been meticulously examined in this research.
By tracing the evolution of Pyu pagodas, we uncover their deep-rooted influence on the architectural marvels of the later Bagan era. These early masterpieces serve as the precursors of Myanmar’s grand pagodas, bridging the artistic heritage of the Pyu civilization with the timeless elegance of Bagan’s temple city. Through this exploration, we reaffirm the enduring significance of Pyu art and architecture, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and captivate generations to come.
Influences and Themes
The Pyu sculptural tradition was deeply influenced by Indian art, particularly from the Gupta and post-Gupta periods. Buddhism played a central role in Pyu society, which is reflected in their sculptures' predominant themes. Statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and various deities were commonly created, often displaying characteristics of early Southeast Asian Buddhist art. Hindu influences were also present, as seen in sculptures depicting Vishnu, Shiva, and other Hindu deities.
Materials and Techniques
Pyu sculptors primarily worked with stone, bronze, and terracotta. Stone sculptures, often crafted from sandstone, were used to create large statues and relief carvings found in temples and stupas. Bronze casting was another prominent technique, used to produce intricate Buddha images and ritual objects. Terracotta plaques adorned temple walls, featuring scenes from Jataka tales and other religious motifs.
Iconography and Styles
Pyu sculptures exhibit a blend of indigenous and foreign styles. The Buddha statues from this era are characterized by serene expressions, elongated earlobes, and draped robes, reflecting Indian artistic traditions. Some sculptures display stylistic similarities with the Amaravati and Gupta schools of art, evident in the soft modeling of figures and elegant poses. However, local adaptations can be observed, particularly in facial features and decorative elements, which distinguish Pyu art from its Indian counterparts.
Notable Discoveries
Significant archaeological findings related to Pyu sculpture art have been unearthed in ancient Pyu cities such as Beikthano, Halin, and Sri Ksetra. Bronze Buddha images, intricately carved stone reliefs, and terracotta votive tablets are among the most notable discoveries. These artifacts are now preserved in museums, including the National Museum of Myanmar, offering a glimpse into the artistic sophistication of the Pyu civilization.
Legacy and Influence
The artistic legacy of the Pyu era laid the foundation for later Burmese art, particularly in the Pagan (Bagan) period. Many stylistic elements introduced during the Pyu era continued to evolve, shaping the artistic traditions of Myanmar for centuries. The sculptures of this ancient civilization not only serve as a testament to their artistic prowess but also provide crucial historical and cultural insights into early Myanmar.
In conclusion, the sculpture art of the Pyu era represents a rich blend of indigenous creativity and external influences. As archaeological research continues, further discoveries may shed even more light on the artistic achievements of this fascinating period in Myanmar's history.
Reference - The Artistic Monuments of Pyu in Ancient Sriksetra by Khaing Khaing Saw
- https://www.metmuseum.org/
- https://www.originalbuddhas .com/
Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News)
Thanks to the centuries-long shared border and close historical ties, Myanmar and India share numerous cultural and traditional similarities. The connection between Myanmar meditation practices and Indian yoga stems from their shared roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, both emphasizing self-discipline, mindfulness, and inner peace. Both practices are deeply rooted in similar philosophical and spiritual frameworks that originated in the Indian subcontinent and subsequently spread throughout parts of Asia, including Myanmar.
Thanks to the centuries-long shared border and close historical ties, Myanmar and India share numerous cultural and traditional similarities. The connection between Myanmar meditation practices and Indian yoga stems from their shared roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, both emphasizing self-discipline, mindfulness, and inner peace. Both practices are deeply rooted in similar philosophical and spiritual frameworks that originated in the Indian subcontinent and subsequently spread throughout parts of Asia, including Myanmar.
Meditation has long been an integral part of Myanmar's cultural and spiritual heritage. Deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism, meditation offers numerous mental, physical, and emotional benefits, carrying centuries of profound historical significance.
Yoga, originating in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, is deeply intertwined with Indian philosophy, spirituality, and culture. In today's fast-paced world, our modern lifestyle and approach to healing often lead to an accumulation of micro-assaults on our immune systems without adequate time for our bodies to recover. This is where the ancient yet simple practices of yoga can be invaluable in boosting immunity and promoting a healthier life.
Shared Origins in Philosophy
Indian Roots: Both yoga and meditation practices in Myanmar share roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, notably Hinduism and Buddhism. Yoga evolved as a system for self-realization during the Vedic period, while meditation practices gained prominence with the rise of Buddhism.
Buddhism as a Bridge: Meditation in Myanmar is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which originated in India and subsequently spread to Southeast Asia. Buddha himself emphasized mindfulness and meditation, principles that resonate deeply with the meditative aspects of yoga.
Both yoga and Myanmar meditation emphasize cultivating mindfulness and deep inner awareness. In yoga, mindfulness is developed through postures, breath control, and meditation, fostering a connection between the body and mind. Similarly, Myanmar meditation practices, such as Vipassana (insight meditation), center on observing the present moment with clarity and understanding the true nature of reality.
Both practices share the ultimate goal of transcending worldly distractions, deepening self-awareness, and attaining inner peace and liberation.
Benefits
Mental Clarity and Focus: Meditation cultivates mindfulness, allowing practitioners to remain present and focused. This heightened awareness enhances decision-making and reduces mental clutter.
Stress Reduction: Regular meditation calms the mind and reduces stress by activating the body's relaxation response. This is particularly valuable in today's fast-paced world.
Emotional Resilience: Meditation fosters emotional balance, helping individuals manage negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, and fear. Over time, practitioners experience greater patience and compassion.
Physical Health: Scientific studies demonstrate that meditation can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. It also promotes overall well-being by mitigating the impact of chronic stress.
Spiritual Growth: For many in Myanmar, meditation is a path to spiritual awakening and liberation (Nivana). It deepens understanding of the impermanent nature of life and cultivates inner peace.
Yoga
Yoga, as a mind-body intervention, has been globally utilized to combat lifestyle-related diseases where stress is believed to play a significant role. By calming the mind and bringing stability and balance to vital energies, yoga helps modulate the immune response appropriately. Studies have shown that yoga can improve immunity, even during influenza epidemics.
Rooted in Indian traditions and culture, yoga is a system of holistic living that emphasizes the development of one's inherent power in a balanced manner. Today, it is widely practiced as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Yoga's global popularity stems from its spiritual values, therapeutic credentials, its role in disease prevention, its promotion of health, and its effectiveness in managing lifestyle-related disorders.
Ethical Principles and Spiritual Goals
Yogic Philosophy: The eightfold path of yoga, emphasizing Strength, Awareness, and Flexibility, posits that regular yoga practice can lead to increased muscle and bone strength, improved sleep, better stress management and resilience, a strengthened immune system, and enhanced brain health.
Buddhist Teachings: Myanmar meditation practices are grounded in the Eightfold Path taught by the Buddha, emphasizing right mindfulness, right concentration, and right effort, principles that align closely with yogic ideals.
Practical Techniques
Both traditions incorporate techniques to quiet the mind and access deeper states of meditation. In yoga, this is achieved through cultivating a state of abiding calm, while in Myanmar meditation, this is often done through techniques like mindfulness of breathing. The practice of focusing on the breath is central to both traditions, serving as a crucial tool for calming the mind and developing concentration.
Spiritual Liberation
Both yoga and meditation ultimately aim for liberation. In yoga, the goal is freedom from the cycle of birth and death, often described as union with the divine. In meditation, the goal is the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. These goals reflect a shared vision of transcending the limitations of human existence and achieving a higher state of consciousness.
Modern Interconnections
With globalization, yoga and meditation have become increasingly intertwined. Myanmar meditation masters like Mahasi Sayadaw and Ledi Sayadaw have popularized vipassana meditation worldwide, often integrated into yoga retreats. Indian yoga gurus and Buddhist meditation teachers share mutual respect for each other's traditions, recognizing their complementary benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Buddhism, a significant influence on Myanmar meditation practices, also shaped aspects of yoga, particularly its meditative and ethical components. As Buddhism spread from India to Myanmar, it carried forward techniques of mindfulness and concentration that complement yoga.
Conclusion
In essence, both yoga and Myanmar meditation serve as profound paths to cultivating mindfulness, inner awareness, and overall well-being. Rooted in ethical principles and spiritual wisdom, these practices promote mental clarity, emotional resilience, and physical health while guiding practitioners toward a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through structured techniques such as breath control, postures, and meditative focus, yoga and Myanmar meditation foster inner peace, balance, and self-discipline. As holistic disciplines, they not only help individuals navigate modern challenges with greater ease but also encourage a journey toward spiritual growth and enlightenment. By integrating these ancient traditions into daily life, practitioners can experience a harmonious connection between mind, body, and spirit, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.
References:
• Teachings of Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw
•Teachings of Venerable Ledi Sayadaw
•Embassy of India, Yangon, Myanmar
• Practitioners of the Vipassana Group
Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News)
Thanks to the centuries-long shared border and close historical ties, Myanmar and India share numerous cultural and traditional similarities. The connection between Myanmar meditation practices and Indian yoga stems from their shared roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, both emphasizing self-discipline, mindfulness, and inner peace. Both practices are deeply rooted in similar philosophical and spiritual frameworks that originated in the Indian subcontinent and subsequently spread throughout parts of Asia, including Myanmar.
Meditation has long been an integral part of Myanmar's cultural and spiritual heritage. Deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism, meditation offers numerous mental, physical, and emotional benefits, carrying centuries of profound historical significance.
Yoga, originating in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, is deeply intertwined with Indian philosophy, spirituality, and culture. In today's fast-paced world, our modern lifestyle and approach to healing often lead to an accumulation of micro-assaults on our immune systems without adequate time for our bodies to recover. This is where the ancient yet simple practices of yoga can be invaluable in boosting immunity and promoting a healthier life.
Shared Origins in Philosophy
Indian Roots: Both yoga and meditation practices in Myanmar share roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, notably Hinduism and Buddhism. Yoga evolved as a system for self-realization during the Vedic period, while meditation practices gained prominence with the rise of Buddhism.
Buddhism as a Bridge: Meditation in Myanmar is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which originated in India and subsequently spread to Southeast Asia. Buddha himself emphasized mindfulness and meditation, principles that resonate deeply with the meditative aspects of yoga.
Both yoga and Myanmar meditation emphasize cultivating mindfulness and deep inner awareness. In yoga, mindfulness is developed through postures, breath control, and meditation, fostering a connection between the body and mind. Similarly, Myanmar meditation practices, such as Vipassana (insight meditation), center on observing the present moment with clarity and understanding the true nature of reality.
Both practices share the ultimate goal of transcending worldly distractions, deepening self-awareness, and attaining inner peace and liberation.
Benefits
Mental Clarity and Focus: Meditation cultivates mindfulness, allowing practitioners to remain present and focused. This heightened awareness enhances decision-making and reduces mental clutter.
Stress Reduction: Regular meditation calms the mind and reduces stress by activating the body's relaxation response. This is particularly valuable in today's fast-paced world.
Emotional Resilience: Meditation fosters emotional balance, helping individuals manage negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, and fear. Over time, practitioners experience greater patience and compassion.
Physical Health: Scientific studies demonstrate that meditation can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. It also promotes overall well-being by mitigating the impact of chronic stress.
Spiritual Growth: For many in Myanmar, meditation is a path to spiritual awakening and liberation (Nivana). It deepens understanding of the impermanent nature of life and cultivates inner peace.
Yoga
Yoga, as a mind-body intervention, has been globally utilized to combat lifestyle-related diseases where stress is believed to play a significant role. By calming the mind and bringing stability and balance to vital energies, yoga helps modulate the immune response appropriately. Studies have shown that yoga can improve immunity, even during influenza epidemics.
Rooted in Indian traditions and culture, yoga is a system of holistic living that emphasizes the development of one's inherent power in a balanced manner. Today, it is widely practiced as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Yoga's global popularity stems from its spiritual values, therapeutic credentials, its role in disease prevention, its promotion of health, and its effectiveness in managing lifestyle-related disorders.
Ethical Principles and Spiritual Goals
Yogic Philosophy: The eightfold path of yoga, emphasizing Strength, Awareness, and Flexibility, posits that regular yoga practice can lead to increased muscle and bone strength, improved sleep, better stress management and resilience, a strengthened immune system, and enhanced brain health.
Buddhist Teachings: Myanmar meditation practices are grounded in the Eightfold Path taught by the Buddha, emphasizing right mindfulness, right concentration, and right effort, principles that align closely with yogic ideals.
Practical Techniques
Both traditions incorporate techniques to quiet the mind and access deeper states of meditation. In yoga, this is achieved through cultivating a state of abiding calm, while in Myanmar meditation, this is often done through techniques like mindfulness of breathing. The practice of focusing on the breath is central to both traditions, serving as a crucial tool for calming the mind and developing concentration.
Spiritual Liberation
Both yoga and meditation ultimately aim for liberation. In yoga, the goal is freedom from the cycle of birth and death, often described as union with the divine. In meditation, the goal is the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. These goals reflect a shared vision of transcending the limitations of human existence and achieving a higher state of consciousness.
Modern Interconnections
With globalization, yoga and meditation have become increasingly intertwined. Myanmar meditation masters like Mahasi Sayadaw and Ledi Sayadaw have popularized vipassana meditation worldwide, often integrated into yoga retreats. Indian yoga gurus and Buddhist meditation teachers share mutual respect for each other's traditions, recognizing their complementary benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Buddhism, a significant influence on Myanmar meditation practices, also shaped aspects of yoga, particularly its meditative and ethical components. As Buddhism spread from India to Myanmar, it carried forward techniques of mindfulness and concentration that complement yoga.
Conclusion
In essence, both yoga and Myanmar meditation serve as profound paths to cultivating mindfulness, inner awareness, and overall well-being. Rooted in ethical principles and spiritual wisdom, these practices promote mental clarity, emotional resilience, and physical health while guiding practitioners toward a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through structured techniques such as breath control, postures, and meditative focus, yoga and Myanmar meditation foster inner peace, balance, and self-discipline. As holistic disciplines, they not only help individuals navigate modern challenges with greater ease but also encourage a journey toward spiritual growth and enlightenment. By integrating these ancient traditions into daily life, practitioners can experience a harmonious connection between mind, body, and spirit, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.
References:
• Teachings of Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw
•Teachings of Venerable Ledi Sayadaw
•Embassy of India, Yangon, Myanmar
• Practitioners of the Vipassana Group
Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News)
The bullock cart is the most suitable type of vehicle for Myanmar’s traditional donation ceremony, especially the novitiate ceremony. The bullock was formerly called Hleyinkyawt (decorated cart) and Shwehle (golden cart). More than 70 per cent of the over 50 million people in Myanmar rely on agriculture for their livelihood.
The bullock cart is the most suitable type of vehicle for Myanmar’s traditional donation ceremony, especially the novitiate ceremony. The bullock was formerly called Hleyinkyawt (decorated cart) and Shwehle (golden cart). More than 70 per cent of the over 50 million people in Myanmar rely on agriculture for their livelihood.
In the dry season like Thadingyut, Tazaungmone and Nataw, the production rate of crops is in proper condition in rural areas. Meanwhile, the farmers reap proper incomes, donate Katina’s robe, and organize a novitiate ceremony for boys and an ear-piercing ceremony for girls, fulfilling an essential duty of parenthood.
For such traditional donation events, the elephant, horse and bullock carts and vehicles are beautifully decorated and go around the townships and monasteries. At the same time, the people with drums and Ohsi are entertaining. Although renting elephants, horses, and vehicles is easy for the procession, it is challenging to hire a bullock cart. Personal communication in rural areas plays a crucial role in renting bullock carts, and it is hard to hire even 14 or 15 carts. “It is tough to find bullock carts in up-country. If there are cart associations, it might be easy to hire carts for donation ceremonies. The rental fee is only K20,000 and K25,000 per cart. However, one village can get only one or two carts, so it is hard to get 10 or 15 carts. However, we have to arrange them properly as they represent tradition and culture,” said U Thet Tun, chairman of Chanthagyi Social Welfare Association in Minbu. On the eve of the novitiate ceremony, the vehicle carrying the Buddha statue goes around leading the line, followed by the elephant, horse and bullock carts carrying novices-to-be, fathers and mothers of novices-to-be and girls carrying robes and gifts for the monks. Moreover, the dance troupes carrying drums and Ohsi actively participate in the event. Therefore, the novitiate ceremony intends to conserve the caravan of bullock carts as part of Myanmar tradition and culture. — Zeyar Htet (Minbu)/KTZH
The bullock cart is the most suitable type of vehicle for Myanmar’s traditional donation ceremony, especially the novitiate ceremony. The bullock was formerly called Hleyinkyawt (decorated cart) and Shwehle (golden cart). More than 70 per cent of the over 50 million people in Myanmar rely on agriculture for their livelihood.
In the dry season like Thadingyut, Tazaungmone and Nataw, the production rate of crops is in proper condition in rural areas. Meanwhile, the farmers reap proper incomes, donate Katina’s robe, and organize a novitiate ceremony for boys and an ear-piercing ceremony for girls, fulfilling an essential duty of parenthood.
For such traditional donation events, the elephant, horse and bullock carts and vehicles are beautifully decorated and go around the townships and monasteries. At the same time, the people with drums and Ohsi are entertaining. Although renting elephants, horses, and vehicles is easy for the procession, it is challenging to hire a bullock cart. Personal communication in rural areas plays a crucial role in renting bullock carts, and it is hard to hire even 14 or 15 carts. “It is tough to find bullock carts in up-country. If there are cart associations, it might be easy to hire carts for donation ceremonies. The rental fee is only K20,000 and K25,000 per cart. However, one village can get only one or two carts, so it is hard to get 10 or 15 carts. However, we have to arrange them properly as they represent tradition and culture,” said U Thet Tun, chairman of Chanthagyi Social Welfare Association in Minbu. On the eve of the novitiate ceremony, the vehicle carrying the Buddha statue goes around leading the line, followed by the elephant, horse and bullock carts carrying novices-to-be, fathers and mothers of novices-to-be and girls carrying robes and gifts for the monks. Moreover, the dance troupes carrying drums and Ohsi actively participate in the event. Therefore, the novitiate ceremony intends to conserve the caravan of bullock carts as part of Myanmar tradition and culture. — Zeyar Htet (Minbu)/KTZH