A ceremony to launch a book on the historical connections between India and Rakhine, accompanied by a photo exhibition, was held on the afternoon of 2 March at the Indian Cultural Centre, situated at the corner of Merchant Road and Shwebontha Road in Pabedan Township, Yangon Region.The event was attended by Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs and Culture Daw Nu Mra Zan, Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Abhay Thakur, Chairman U Than Maung of the Rakhine Literature and Culture Association (Yangon), and its members. Also in attendance were representatives from the Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine, and Shan literature and culture associations in Yangon, as well as representatives from Rakhine ethnic subgroups, including the Dainet, Thet, Mro, Khumi, Maramagyi, and Kaman peoples, alongside guests.To commence the proceedings, Deputy Minister Daw Nu Mra Zan, Ambassador Mr Abhay Thakur, former Myanmar Ambassador to Australia U Tha Aung Nyunt, Chairman U Than Maung, and Academy Award-winning Rakhine actor U Aung Lwin formally opened the photo exhibition by cutting a ceremonial ribbon. They then toured the gallery to view the displayed photographs.During the book launch segment, the deputy minister noted that the relationship between the Indian and Rakhine peoples spans several centuries. She highlighted that through historical commerce, not only did trade and coinage spread, but also philosophy, literature, art, and Buddhist teachings. She remarked that inscriptions, artworks, and customs found in ancient Rakhine cities such as Danyawady and Vesali serve as evidence of Indian cultural influence. Furthermore, the stone carvings and architectural designs in the Rakhine region stand as symbols of this long-standing exchange. She also expressed particular gratitude to the Indian government for the benefits to bilateral trade brought about by the opening of Sittway port.The Indian ambassador then spoke, stating that the exhibition and book launch, which highlight the historical ties between Rakhine and India, are immensely valuable as they allow for the study of literature, art, and ancient coinage. He added that, as India shares a long border with Myanmar, it remains a country capable of providing the swiftest assistance to its neighbour. Following this, the chairman of the Rakhine Literature and Culture Association (Yangon) gave an introductory speech regarding the newly launched book.Officials from the Rakhine Literature and Culture Association (Yangon) presented the Indian ambassador with a commemorative gift. Subsequently, Daw Nu Mra Zan (Honorary Patron of the association), the chairman, and the vice-chairman presented copies of the book, “India-Rakhine Historical Connections”, to the ambassador. — MNA/MKKSgnlm
Wed, 4-Mar-2026