MAWLAMYAING-The grand celebration of 73rd Mon National Day (Central) which falls on February 9th will be held in Mawlamyaing Township, Mon State, according to the Observance Committee of Mon National Day (Central).

“The Observance Committee decided to hold the 73rd Mon National Day in Mawlamyaing. The observance committee already had been formed on October 26th as well as 12 respective sub-committees were formed on November 9th. We are now planning to set up the billboard. The respective sub-committees are now carrying out the tasks on grand celebration of Mon National Day,” said Min Aung Htoo, Joint Secretary of Observance Committee for holding of Mon National Day.

“Mon National Day is celebrated annually across the country. Now, Mawlawmyiang Township has been chosen to hold the 73rd Mon National Day. Plans are underway to hold literature competition, traditional songs and dances performed by a popular Mon drama troupes and other cultural events. Moreover, traditional Mon musical instruments, food and handicrafts will be sold at the festival,” said Joint Secretary Min Aung Htoo.

Min Aung Htoo also said that the ceremony aimed to preserve the Mon language, literature, religion and custom.

Mon National Day’s observance committee was formed with representatives from Mon and Kayin States and Yangon and Bogo Regions in 1997, and the celebration is subsequently held in different locations with a rotation through townships. It has been held in 10 Mon State townships.

However, 71st and 72nd Mon National Day ceremonies were held in Zarthapyin village, Hpa-an Township, Kayin State and Bago Region.

Mon Kings Thamala and Wimala founded the Hongsawadee capital on the day after the full Moon Day in the month of Thabodwe in the year 573 AD. The Mon people mark Mon National Day on this day annually.