Shop owner at the Scott Market in Yangon, Myanmar, applies traditional Thanakha paste to her face. Made by grinding branches of the Thanakha tree into a powder and then adding water, the paste is used as a protection from the sun and as an enhancement to beauty. Though men are also occasionally seen wearing Thanakha, it is more commonly used by women and and children. It remains to be seen whether this practice will fade as Myanmar fully emerges as a democratic, modern country, but for the moment its use is still widespread in the cities and countryside. This was just one of many magical sights seen during my Myanmar Explorer Cruise/Tour with Viking River Cruises.
These shop owner, my mom passed away in last year June….Thank you for your picture…
Dear Win Shwe Yi: I am so sorry to hear about your mother’s passing, but I am honored that you like my photo. It is probably my favorite photo from Myanmar.
Learnt a lot about Mandlay n its lake inle. Thanks for sharing the information.
You’re very welcome, Ved.
Cool image. Did you try the paste?
I did try it; I even learned how to wear a traditional longyje. Unfortunately, the beauty treatment part of the Thanakha was wasted on me – it just settled into my wrinkles and cracked (lol).
Thank you, Barbara!
Every picture makes me want to know more about the stories… Beautiful sunset, too!
Thank YOU, Aida. So pleased you continue to be a loyal reader.
Fascinating! I really enjoy these little insights into another culture.
Me too, Linda! It’s what drives me to keep traveling.