THIS season is a time for change as well as a special occasion for celebrating. The sun leaves Pisces for Aries; the God Indra – king of the celestial abode – comes down to the earth to note the virtues and vices of each individual; and everyone is keen to leave behind or forget about all the terrible things they have done over the year.

Thingyan pandals have become increasingly popular for the last 20 years. Pandals are the perfect platform for young people to model trendy new fashions and hairstyles. Pandals are also the perfect advertising opportunity for many of Myanmar’s biggest companies who are keen to cash in on the huge numbers of people who come out to play.