Cultural ties between Myanmar and India
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Thiri Khit Oo (NP News) - Dec 3
Myanmar's culture has evolved over thousands of years, influenced by geography, indigenous traditions, foreign elements, and historical events. It is deeply rooted in the customs of early ethnic groups such as the Pyu and Mon. These communities practiced animism, ancestor worship, and indigenous agricultural techniques, which shaped their festivals, rituals, and daily life.
Around the 3rd century BC, Theravāda Buddhism spread to Myanmar primarily from India, becoming the dominant religion and significantly influencing Myanmar's culture. Buddhist teachings are deeply embedded in the country's philosophy, moral values, art, and architecture. Monks (sangha) and monasteries became central to education and community life. Stupas, pagodas, and temples, such as the Shwedagon Pagoda, reflect this profound Buddhist influence. Sites like Bodh Gaya in India and sacred Buddhist stupas in Myanmar connect the spiritual traditions of both nations.
Ancient trade routes connected Myanmar with India and China, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices. The Burmese script is partly derived from the Indian Brahmi script, while Pali emerged as the sacred language for Buddhist texts, demonstrating significant linguistic and written influence.
Elements of Indian and Chinese design are evident in Myanmar’s traditional art and temples. The Mon people played a crucial role in introducing Theravāda Buddhism, temple-building traditions, and literary advancements. The Bagan Kingdom (9th–13th centuries) was instrumental in solidifying Buddhist culture, leading to the construction of thousands of temples in Bagan that showcase a blend of local and Indian influences. Both India and Myanmar have a rich tradition of constructing grand religious monuments, characterized by intricate carvings and symbolic designs.
During the colonial period, the British (19th–20th centuries) introduced Western cultural elements, including education, legal systems, and architecture. However, the Burmese people retained their traditional practices, resulting in a blend of modern and traditional lifestyles. Additionally, traditional clothing in Myanmar, such as the longyi, shares similarities in style and fabric with Indian attire like the dhoti or lungi. Brightly colored textiles and handwoven garments are valued in both cultures.
Myanmar is home to over 135 indigenous groups, each with distinct traditions, languages, and festivals. This diversity enriches the country's culture, with notable contributions from groups such as the Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Bamar, Mon, Rakhine, and Shan. The richness of these ethnicities is reflected in traditional art forms like lacquerware, painting, and puppetry, which blend Buddhist themes with local creativity. Additionally, literature often incorporates Buddhist moral tales, poetry, and folklore, with many epics tracing their origins to Indian literature.
There are notable similarities in the traditional dances and musical instruments of both countries, reflecting mutual influences over the centuries. For instance, the use of drums and cymbals is common in both cultures.
As time progressed and modern developments occurred, Myanmar sought to preserve its cultural heritage while modernizing after gaining independence in 1948. Globalization and regional influences continue to shape the culture, yet traditional practices remain a cornerstone of national identity.
Myanmar's culture is a rich tapestry of indigenous traditions, Buddhist teachings, and foreign influences, woven together over centuries. The interplay of religion, ethnic diversity, and historical events has created a vibrant and unique cultural identity that continues to evolve while honoring its roots.
The ancient trade routes across the Bay of Bengal facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and traditions, embedding Indian cultural elements in Myanmar and vice versa. These shared cultural aspects highlight the deep-rooted historical connections between Myanmar and India, fostering a sense of familiarity and mutual appreciation between their peoples.
Through this longstanding friendship, India and Myanmar have developed close cultural ties and a profound sense of kinship. In this context, India is undertaking initiatives to restore the Ananda Temple in Bagan that was damaged in 2016 earthquake and processing to repair and conserve numerous pagodas which were damaged in natural disasters. Additionally, India has completed the restoration and renovation of two historic temples in Bodh Gaya that were built by Myanmar’s Kings Mindon and Bagyidaw. Cultural interactions between India and Myanmar also include regular visits from cultural troupes representing both countries. -
References - Journal of the Siam Society 90 part 1 & 2 (2002) by U Thaw Kaung
- India-Myanmar - Bilateral Brief
- India-Myanmar Relations from Consulate General of India (Mandalay, Myanmar)