093http://www.wnd.sgethnic tribe with 7000 members, is an ancient one and
their customs are followed till date. Though this may
seem harsh to outsiders, Padaung women gleefully
wear their neckpieces, starting from age five, truly
believing that it adds to their beauty. It is not seen as a
sign of coercion or patriarchy, rather as an ornament
or a distinction to be proud of.LAST WORD
Myanmar is a unique destination, with ancient history,
archaeological beauty and colonial traces. It is a land
that seems to be in a time warp. Not in step with the
rushing clocks around, Myanmar walks at its own slow
pace. It remains untouched, not in a pristine sense
but more unmarked by globalisation and commercial
footprints. The food is delicious, with influences from
China, India, Thailand and Cambodia. The people
may not exhibit the warm exuberance that you see in
Thailand but they are happy to visited.
Child monks chant nonchalantly in crumbling
wooden monasteries and Padaung ladies go about their
weaving with a smile on their face. As someone rightly
said, when you visit Myanmar, you are not so much
a tourist, but rather a witness to this land that was
passed by. A land that holds magical treasures within
its folds, slowly loosening its grasp to allow you to peek
inside. A land worthy of a visit. Or two.PHOTOS: HARNOOR CHANNI-TIWARY
Hot air balloons rise up over the pagoda-dotted
landscape of the ancient city of BaganWomen belonging to the Kayan Tribe in Lake
Inle wear thick gold necklaces to elongate
their necks, a sign of beauty in their culture