Myanmar's traditional Htamane festival fosters unity, brings community together

People participate in a Htamane-making competition at the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar, Jan. 31, 2026. - Xinhua

YANGON, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- On Saturday afternoon (Jan 31), the eve of the full moon of Tabodwe, Shwedagon Pagoda towered over Yangon as Myanmar's most sacred landmark and the heart of a living cultural tradition.

Excitement filled the pagoda grounds as 36 teams gathered at its base to take part in the annual Htamane-making competition.