If recognition is achieved, thanakha will become Myanmar's second intangible cultural heritage to be recognised by Unesco, after its traditional water festival of Thingyan was added last December. Photo: AP
Supporters and opponents of Myanmar’s military government are engaged in a bloody civil war, but a recent celebration feted something almost all find worthy: the use of thanakha, a yellowish-white paste made from ground tree bark as a traditional natural cosmetic.
Thanakha-painted cheeks are ubiquitous in Myanmar, where women and children apply the paste on their cheeks, nose, forehead, neck, forearms and shins after their morning showers, during the day and before bed. It’s not unusual for men to apply it on their faces. Now the tradition will be considered by the UN’s cultural agency.
