THE 1387 Myanmar New Year and fish-releasing ceremonies were held at the Shwedagon Pagoda on New Year Day, 17 April, according to the pagoda board of trustees, with the New Year ceremony taking place at the prayer hall of ancient Buddha images on the southern part of the pagoda, where venerable monks recited Paritta to ward off dangers and share merits.
A total of 1,000 fish were released and fed during a ceremony at Shin Uppagutta Lake in Singuttara Park, on the pagoda’s lower terrace near the northern archway, attended by cabinet members from the Yangon Region government as part of the New Year celebrations.
On the Myanmar New Year Day, many pilgrims from across the country came to pay homage to the Shwedagon Pagoda, filling the four stairways and parking areas, where charity feast offerings were generously provided. — ASH/MKKS
