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Mount Popa is a vast volcanic mountain that overwhelms the
flat landscape. It is only about one hour drive from Bagan.
Popa is located near Bagan and it has many legendary stories
about the spirits (Nats) of today. This annual festival is
known as Taung Byone festival, it is usually held during the
month of August.
The Nats are believed to be super natural powerful beings,
stated between the gods and the spiritual beings.
The Myanmars still worship them vigorously, and believe that
the Nats can bring luck and prosperity to the worshippers
and can also bring danger to those who do not respect them.
The word "Nat" is unclear. It may be derive from the Hindu
Natha which means lord, savior or protector.
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This festival includes the following matters.
1. Preparation for the Ritual
2. The Offerings
3. The Orchestra
4. The Possession
The Nat Pwe is usually held for three days. The first day is
for the Summoning the Nats. The second day is the Nats'
feast. The third is the day for the Nats' departure.
Devotees from all over Myanmar, comes to this special
festival and offer their donations and enjoy themselves with
the blessings of the spirits, every year. They pray for
prosperity, fame, and luck for the next coming year.
So, if you can have a visit to Myanmar, to learn about new
cultures and to have extraordinary experience, we recommend
that you should visit this special festival of Mount Popa. |
