Myanmar New Year Day: Performing meritorious deeds in the time of New Year

On the day of Myanmar New Year, people perform meritorious deeds at the pagoda and temples across the country.

At the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the Pagoda Board of Trustees organized a ceremony to offer alms to the Shwedagon Pagoda, along with the donation of dawn meal to the Sayadaws and members of the Sangha. This event also included recitation of the Parritta Suttas by the Sayadaws and offertories donation to the members of the Sangha.

Member, Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees, Htay Hlaing said "During the time of transition to the New Year, Myanmar Buddhists use to wash away the bad fortune from the previous year by performing good deeds. In order to hand down the legacy of the Buddhist traditions and culture, we, the Pagoda Board of Trustees organize the New Year celebration. "

Following the four-day water festival, people usher in the New Year, leaving behind all bad things in the previous years and wishing for the peace and prosperities in the coming year.

Member, Yay Kyi Taw Wut Association, Kyi Kyi Hla said "From this auspicious New Year, I wish for all Myanmar people to be healthy and happy. And also the global community enjoy peace and prosperity."

On the Myanmar New Year Day, Myanmar Buddhists visit to the pagodas to pay homage to the Buddha image, while taking mediation, keeping Sabbath and performing meritorious deeds as well as release fish to the lakes and rivers. Donating charity feasts is one of the customs during the New Year period.