Quake recovery subdues water festival celebrations in Myanmar
In Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, millions normally take part in raucous play with uninhibited splashing of water on friends and strangers.
Several south-east Asian countries have kicked off their annual water festival holiday, but events in Myanmar are more subdued than usual in the wake of a devastating earthquake last month.
In Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, millions normally take part in a mix of raucous play with uninhibited splashing of water on friends and strangers alike, and sober ceremonies to show respect to one’s elders.
The holiday is an occasion for merrymaking during what is usually the hottest time of the year, when temperatures can creep above 40C.
Many people who have moved to cities for work return to their native villages and towns to reunite with their families. The celebration is normally spread over several days, culminating on the actual New Year’s Day.
