Security measures have been systematically arranged for upcoming Buddha Pujaniya Festival at Mann Shwesettaw Pagoda, according to a source close to the event’s organizing committee.
“The opening ceremony will be held on the 5th waxing of Tabodwe. During the outbreak of Covid-19, there were no festivals, only Buddha Puja ceremonies after opening the Upper Settawya (Buddha’s footprint on the hill) and Lower Settawya (Buddha’s footprint at the foot of the hill). Now, these events will be held together with the opening ceremony- first Lower Settawya then Upper Settawya. They will be closed again on Myanmar New Year’s Day. We have made systematic security arrangements for the pilgrims,” he said.
The Mann Shwesettaw Pagoda Festival will be held from 14 February 2024 and the committee will allow the construction of guest houses as well as stalls for the pilgrims to stay overnight.
“It is the same this year. There will be about 800 guest houses and 400 shops, including special rooms and normal ones,” a local from Sagu said.
This very famous and crowded festival is usually held for 80 days from the 5th waxing of Tabodwe to Myanmar New Year’s day while every year, many pilgrims from all over the country flock to the historic pagoda with the record of Buddha’s arrival.
Last year, the Buddha Pujaniya Festival of the Mann Shwesettaw was successfully held on 5 February 2022 in accordance with Covid-19 restrictions.
“Pilgrims can also enjoy the nature of the mountains and countryside while paying homage to the pagoda. This is a very popular and long pagoda festival that is regularly held. People come from all over the country. But there is no special tour package. People just visit as pilgrims,” said a tourism official .
Thit Taw/ZN
