Myanmar's traditional water festival kicked off across the country Saturday with opening ceremonies held in regions and states including the largest city of Yangon.
The Thingyan festival, or the water festival, which is believed to bring peace and prosperity to everyone, is the grandest among the country's 12 seasonal festivals throughout the year, marking the start of Myanmar New Year.
Sprinkling water during the festival symbolizes the washing away of the previous year's sins and the anticipation of starting a new year with a fresh outlook.
At the water-splashing platform in front of the Yangon City Hall, well-known local singers and dancers took the stage to perform while citizens dressed in splendid costumes, singing and dancing joyfully, splashing water on each other to offer blessings and celebrate the festival.
"I'm very happy to usher in the annual water festival and wish everyone a successful and auspicious new year ahead.," said a local resident.
In Myanmar, water symbolizes cleanliness, coolness, auspiciousness and peace. With a history of over 700 years in the country, the water festival usually occurs in middle of April and lasts four days.
Apart from Myanmar, the water-splashing festival is also observed with great enthusiasm in other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Laos, and in various ethnic minority regions of southwest China's Yunnan Province.
Thingyan water festival kicks off in Myanmar
