YANGON, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- As the clock struck 9:15 p.m. on Thursday, the sky above People's Square and Park in Yangon was transformed into a canvas of brilliant colors.
Fireworks burst into life, showering the night with sparkling lights, while the laughter and excitement of the crowd, along with the explosions of the fireworks, echoed through the air.
For about 10 minutes, the fireworks breathtakingly illuminated the night sky, marking the largest celebration of the Thadingyut Festival in Yangon on this full moon night.
Thousands gathered -- a vibrant mix of Buddhist monks, novices, nuns, and people from all walks of life -- united in celebration. Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein graced the event.
Among the revelers was 21-year-old Wine Chit, who traveled from Pyapon with her parents. "It's my first time participating in such an event in Yangon. I already visited the Shwedagon Pagoda," she shared, her eyes sparkling with joy.
"Thadingyut is a time when we all come together to make merit and share our blessings with others," she added, reflecting the spirit of the festival.
On this auspicious full moon day, families flocked to pagodas and monasteries, performing good deeds by taking precepts and offering food, flowers, candles, and incense to the Buddha.
In the midst of the celebration at People's Square, young Buddhist monk U Indriya led a group of 21 novices, their faces bright with anticipation. "We came from Sanchaung. I brought them here to bring them joy," he explained.
Known as the Lighting Festival, Thadingyut marks the end of Buddhist Lent and celebrates the Buddha's descent from heaven. This year, many people in Myanmar enjoyed five days off for the festival, with jubilant celebrations echoing not just in Yangon but across the country.
However, the festival is more than just gathering together and visiting pagodas. It is also a cherished time for many to return to their hometowns and reunite with their families.
Kyi Thar Swe, a 28-year-old veterinarian from Yangon, traveled back to Nay Pyi Taw to celebrate with her loved ones. "We had a feast with family members and relatives," she said. "It's a time to connect and cherish the bonds that tie us."
Kyi Thar's favorite part of the Thadingyut Festival is paying homage to her elders. "I paid respect to my grandmother, mother, aunties, and elder relatives. It's an expression of gratitude. I feel a sense of relief as I bow down with offerings and ask for their forgiveness for any wrongdoing," she said.
"Every year, I honor my parents, elder family members, and relatives," she said.
Across the nation, pagodas were illuminated with candles and oil lights, and largely crowded with visitors on this significant full moon day.
In the small town of Bogale, 13-year-old Kaung Khant, along with his family members and friends, also celebrated the festival. Kaung said on Thursday afternoon, "I went to the monastery in the morning and took precepts. I will go to the pagoda this evening to light candles." Then, he added joyfully, "I even got pocket money for paying homage to my elders."
The Thadingyut Festival in Myanmar is traditionally celebrated for three days, the day before the full moon, the full moon day, and the day after. ■