Rakhine's Riches

[OKKAR66127@xxxxxxx]

FROM:Thinzar Khine, <Thinzar@xxxxxxxxxx>

Rakhine's Riches
Perspectives, the NLM, Thursday, 19 March 1998

Centuries-old religious and cultural wealth, the heritage of Rakhine
dynasties would take a thick tome to chronicle.

These riches which have stood there as monuments to those who built them in
tribute to Lord Buddha are being restored, renovated and, where necessary,
rebuilt according to their original style that is unique to Rakhine.

Architecture that is unique to the periods in which the edifices found
glory rank among the wonders of Bagan and Borobudor.

Yet they are unique in that they reflect the culture and civilization of
our kin on the north-west or western flank of our territory.

Like the various other edifices that regale past eras, they are being
restored so that they will not fade into the past with the passage of time.

Not only the religious structures but also the remains of the royal palaces
of the glorious Rakhine dynasties are being studied by archaeologists with
a view to having them rebuilt for the benefit of new generations which can
be proud of their lineage, if one would call it that.

Rakhine dances and music, be they rustic rural or courtly accomplishments,
reflect a civilization which found contemporaries in the region, to rival
and thrive, and to be left as heritage worth reviving, perpetuating.

In his most recent tour of Rakhine State, Secretary-1 of the State Peace
and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt extensively travelled to places
of archaeological, religious and cultural interest to give the stamp of
approval for the progress of renovation and restoration.

He also looked into agriculture, fisheries, other resources and the
building of infrastructure.  Time was when Rakhine brethren were totally
dependent on marine and air transport.  No more, for roads and bridges are
being built in good speed to ensure easy access between different parts of
the State and between Rakhine and other States and Divisions.

The government is making added allocations for infrastructural improvements
and the people of Rakhine are taking advantage of the opportunity to assist
in the building of roads.

Rakhine belles possess grace and charm all their own, unique again, as
their culture is heritage handed down through generations.  They, like the
material wealth, are part of Rakhine's riches.
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