A traditional Myanma Chinlone (cane ball) performance was held at 10 am on 28 March in Pakokku, Magway Region, to commemorate the successful completion of the full gilding of the ancient Thihoshin Pagoda, which was built by Bagan King Alaung Sithu.
“The Chinlone performance features national athletes who have represented Myanmar in the SEA Games, along with regional selected players and 12 local teams. The event runs from 28 March to 1 April and aims not only to celebrate the completion of the gold robe offering but also to preserve Myanmar’s traditional Chinlone culture and pass it on to younger generations. The performances include various categories such as 30 types of Chinlone playing sport. Players demonstrate techniques using different parts of the body, including the knees, toes, instep, soles, heels, inner and outer feet, shoulders, head, back, elbows, and a variety of stylized movements such as spinning kicks and artistic formations performed in teams,” said U Hla Phone, Chairman of the Pagoda Board of Trustees.
Moreover, the opening ceremony and evening Dhamma talks to mark the completion of the gold foil offering were held on 27 March. Cultural entertainment programmes will continue with performances by Mandalay Arman Thit theatrical troupe from 30 March to 1 April, and Mandalay Kaung Sit Hein troupe from 5 to 7 April.
On 1 April, the religious events will be held, including Buddha consecration ceremonies, honorary certificate presentations, merit-sharing ceremony, and food donation event. In the afternoon, alms will be offered to 108 monks.
During the festival period, a fun fair featuring around 300 stalls will be set up, offering local food products, household goods, clothing, toys, agricultural tools, and kitchenware. There will also be entertainment areas, including children’s playgrounds and amusement activities such as pirate-themed attractions, ensuring an enjoyable experience for visitors from near and far.
Bar Mi Tha (Pakokku)/KTZH