Celebration in Yangon: 87th Kayin National New Year Festival

Marking the 2,764th year of the Kayin Era, the 87th Kayin National New Year Festival was celebrated in a vibrant and joyous atmosphere at the Union National Races Village in Thakayta Township, Yangon Region on Monday. Sharr Sat Maw has more.

Kayin Nationals and visitors from diverse backgrounds gathered in vibrant celebration at the Union National Races Village in Thakayta Township, Yangon Region, to warmly usher in the Kayin New Year.

Leader of the Central Advisory Body to the State Administration Council U Saw Tun Aung Myint, along with Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein, Yangon Command Commander Maj-Gen Zaw Hein, Deputy Minister for Ethnic Affairs U Zaw Aye Maung, Brigadier General U Saw Sunny from the Mingalardon Air Base and Ethnic Affairs Minister U Saw Jacob Htoo officially inaugurated the event by striking the Kayin traditional frog drum 9 times.

Mahn Than Win Oo, Chairperson, Kayin Literature and Culture Association (Yangon) said "The Kayin New Year is a meaningful tradition passed down by our ancestors. It was officially recognized by law in 1937, along with the Kayin National Flag and Anthem. This year marks the 87th celebration. Since 2022, we've been holding these regional level celebrations in Union National Races village and this one is the fourth of its kind. Today, we started the day early with a flag-hoisting ceremony at 6:00 am, and then we had a speech and an entertaining concert at the Union National Races Village’s Union Hall from 8:00 am. I truly hope that this Kayin New Year brings good health, happiness and a brighter future to everyone, free from any obstacles and full of success."

The festival showcased a diverse array of performances, such as the Kayin Don dance, traditional bamboo dance, rope dance, Sakaw Kayin and West Poe Kayin songs, along with traditional sports competitions.

Meanwhile, the Yangon Region government offered an array of delicious food at affordable prices and the Myanmar Red Cross Society provided free medical assistance to visitors in case of emergencies.

Htet Naing Kyaw, Visitor said "I come here every year, but this time, I came with my friends, and it feels extra special. I haven’t had many chances to hang out with them lately, so celebrating together this year is really meaningful. I hope to do the same with my friends next year. From now on, I plan to keep on celebrating the Kayin New Year every year. I wish for all to have a more prosperous life and spend more time with friends and loved ones, meeting up and being together."

On the 1st waxing day of Pyatho, the Kayin New Year was annually celebrated with pride and patriotism, marking a time of renewal and hope. This year commemorated the 2,764th year of the Kayin Era. This festival, observed across the country, unites the Kayin nationals and people from all the backgrounds, fostering a spirit of solidarity and cultural pride.

Sharr Sat Maw From MITV, reporting at the Union National Races Village.