Originally published in SHAN
A new exhibition showcasing ethnic Shan history, culture and traditions has opened at Wat Ku Tao in Chiang Mai, Thailand, offering residents, students, researchers and visitors an opportunity to learn about Shan heritage.
Organized by the Shan Literature and Cultural Association in Chiang Mai, which is based at the temple, the exhibition features historical photographs, traditional customs and information about Shan saophas, which are the hereditary rulers of Shan principalities.
Sai Pho Aung, chairperson of the association, told SHAN that the exhibition aims to make Shan history more accessible to a diverse audience, including foreign visitors, students, young people, migrant workers in Thailand and researchers.
“This is not just for our own people. It is also for foreigners and students. Our temple is close to a university, so we opened the exhibition to give researchers a place to come and learn about the Shan people,” he said.
Photographs from the era of the Shan saophas offer a glimpse into the region’s past, while information about Shan history and cultural activities is presented in three languages: Shan, Thai and English.
“Opening a history exhibition like this is a good thing. It will help future generations understand what our people were like in the past. Shan people born in Thailand will also have the opportunity to learn much more about their own history,” a Shan migrant worker living in Thailand told SHAN.
The association said it is seeking additional donations and public support to improve the exhibition facilities and expand its collection.
BNI
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