Myanmar fireworks festival muted as clashes spread

This picture taken on Nov 21, 2023 shows children releasing lanterns during the Tazaungdaing festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, in Taunggyi in Myanmar's Shan State. - AFP

TAUNGGYI, Myanmar: A brightly patterned hot air balloon spitting fireworks soared into the night sky above Myanmar's Shan state as a much-loved festival returned, but crowds stayed away from the military-backed event as violent clashes swell across the country.

Tuesday (Nov 21) marked the return of the Tazaungdaing festival to the city of Taunggyi after a three-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic and unrest following the military seizing power in 2021.