Shan ethnic communities in Kachin State and Sagaing Region marked the New Year of the 2119 Shan era, which falls in the Myanmar month of Nattaw, alongside their traditional harvest festival.

In Nantphar village, Bhamo Township, Kachin State, and Maung Kham village, Homalin Township, Sagaing Region, locals celebrated the occasion despite difficulties posed by civil unrest and rising commodity prices.

“In the past, villages would alternate hosting the Shan New Year festival. Now, due to the civil war and economic hardships, people can’t celebrate as they used to. Villagers in Hopin Township offer rice and meals to monks, marking the day as a simple traditional holiday, often making and enjoying snacks at home,” shared a local from Indawgyi village in Kachin State.

The festival in Nantphar village was held under the control of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), while celebrations in Bamauk and Homalin townships took place under the oversight of the Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA).

Traditionally, Shan New Year, observed on the first waxing of Nattaw, included honoring heroes, literati, musicians, and artistes, as well as ceremonies to pay respect to elders. In ancient times, the festive events were filled with revelry and community spirit.