THE Thingyan water, while bringing coolness and freshness and washing away physical impurities from the body, also provides mental strength for those who take part in the water festival. However, true inner purification cannot be achieved merely through the festive celebrations; it can only be attained by reflecting more deeply on profound principles beyond the enjoyment of the water festival.
The Thingyan water brings joy to those who take part in the festivities. Moreover, it transforms the entire surroundings – reversing the heat and dryness into a cool, moist, and refreshing atmosphere. During the intensely hot summer season, it helps reduce the heat and reflects the environmental awareness of the elders, whose foresight in creating the Thingyan water festival is truly worthy of respect.
Thingyan is celebrated in several Southeast Asian countries, particularly in nations where Buddhism and Hinduism are widely practised, where it is observed annually as a traditional festival. Each country holds its own version of the festival in accordance with its cultural customs and traditions, resulting in histories that span thousands of years. Therefore, these festivals are proudly regarded as part of each country’s intangible cultural heritage.
In celebrating the traditional Thingyan festival, people should take part with enjoyment while preserving their country’s cultural values. One’s behaviour should not tarnish the dignity of the traditional festival. Individuals must exercise self-restraint to ensure that inappropriate conduct does not lead to foreigners looking down on the country’s traditional Thingyan festival. People should avoid rude, aggressive, or insulting behaviour, as well as any form of violence, especially towards women and children, and any actions that are contrary to the cultural traditions and values of the Thingyan festival.
Moreover, participants should take part in a coordinated and orderly manner under the guidance of relevant local authorities. Reckless behaviour caused by alcohol or substance abuse leads to traffic accidents and conflicts, which not only harm the lives and well-being of those involved but also tarnish the image of the festival. Such actions can also give rise to criminal activities and increase resentment and hostility among people.
Therefore, people who take part in the Thingyan festival should foster mutual understanding, patience, forgiveness, and loving-kindness so that they, their families, and the people around them can celebrate the festival in happiness and peace. Only in this way will Myanmar’s traditional Thingyan festival remain joyful and delightful. Those who participate will be able to enjoy the celebrations safely and free from harm, and the Thingyan festival will bring with it a spirit of peace.
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