Traditional Clayware Festival held in Mandalay

The Traditional Clayware Festival was celebrated near Mandalay Hill in Aungmyaythazan Township, Obo Ward, Mandalay, from 11 to 12 August.
The festival has been organized annually since last year. Historically, it dates back to the reign of King Thibaw. During the Taungpyone Festival, boats travelled along the Shwetachaung Canal, stopping at Obo Ward near the base of Mandalay Hill, where pottery was temporarily sold. The Traditional Clayware Festival originated from this gathering, held the day before the Taungpyone Festival.
The name ‘Obo’ derives from the abundance of kilns and potteries in the area, as recorded in historical documents.
The festival is traditionally held on the seventh waning day of Waso. Visitors can witness the unique custom of women, both young and old, wearing ‘Kyaukkhwet Pan’ (flower crowns made of green twigs) on their heads, symbolizing the festival’s heritage. — TWA/KZL