Practice of Thanakha Culture in Myanmar: Efforts for nomination of Thanakha to ICH List

Plans are underway to submit the dossier for “Practice of Thanakha Culture in Myanmar” to be inscribed on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List during 2025.

On 5th February, Myanmar National Intangible Cultural Heritage Preservation and Promotion Committee held its work coordination meeting regarding the submission of the dossier at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture in Nay Pyi Taw.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister for Religious Affairs and Culture U Tin Oo Lwin in his capacity as chairman of the committee stressed on systematic preparations and exemplary compilation of nomination dossier for Practice of Thanakha Culture which superbly depicts Myanmar’s prestigious and unique cultural heritage. 

The Union Minister called for the concerted efforts and unity of every ethnic national, residing in Myanmar, to actively participate in preserving nation’s intangible and tangible cultural heritage, passing down from generation to generation. 

Deputy Minister Daw Nu Mra Zan clarified the purpose of the meeting and asked the attendees to submit necessary suggestions for timely amending and submitting of the nomination form by 31st March. The representatives from respective working committees and experts made discussions on their current work implementations and the activities.

Myanmar first submitted the nomination for “Practice of Thanakha Culture in Myanmar” to the UNESCO five years ago, which was decided to resubmit for examination with more efficient data. Applying Thanakha paste is the lovely customs of Myanmar nationals.

In order to safeguard the invaluable intangible culture of the country, the government has designated the Full Moon Day of Tabodwe as the Myanma Thanakha Day, and celebrates the commemorative event every year.

This year’s Myanma Thanakha Day falls on February 12th, coinciding with the Union Day, and the commemorative activities is scheduled at Sein Lan So Pyay Garden in Yangon, with the participation of ethnic cultural associations, ethnic nationalities youth degree college, and students from the National University of Arts and Culture.