Shan traditional festival banned

Shan traditional festival banned

Reports coming from the north said military authorities at a northern border district had issued an order prohibiting the Shan celebration of the Leun-hsi (Fourth Lunar Month or Tabaung in Burmese) two weeks ago.

On 10 March, the district peace and development council of Muse, opposite Ruili of Yunnan and 110 miles north of Lashio, made a proclamation banning the customary celebration in the whole valley of Mao aka Shweli aka Ruili. In future, it was to be observed by the Shans with simpe temple visits and alms-giving, according to the order.The order was followed by intensive public relations by the local departments, namely, Nasaka (Border Control Unit), Administration, Police, military Intelligence and drug agency exhorting the local populace to attend the entertainments by the official mobile theatrical troupe.

"It was to ensure that the people went only to the festivities organized by junta officials," said a source. "In the past the local people had often ignored the military-supported concerts."

The Leun-hsi, that falls on 8 March this year, is held throughout Shan State every year. It is regarded as a Poy Hpi-pang (Festival invited by the gods).