The second day of the traditional Rakhine water festival "Sangrai" turned into a vibrant celebration of global harmony as foreign tourists joined locals in the coastal town.
The Rakhine neighborhoods of Kangpara, Chal Bazar and Tekpara became a meeting ground for diverse cultures washing away boundaries of race and religion.
A group of tourists from Russia stole the spotlight, dancing to the beat of traditional drums and splashing water with Rakhine youth. "I have seen many festivals worldwide, but the sincerity here is unique" said Elena Krasova, a Russian visitor. "We came for the sea, but we found the depth of people's hearts."
Local Rakhine participants expressed their delight at the international interest. "We never dreamed people from so far away would join our small neighborhood celebrations" said Hlaking Rakhine, a local youth.
Rakhine leader Prachathoy Rakhine noted that the number of foreign visitors has increased this year. "Sangrai is no longer just our ethnic tradition; it has become a universal symbol of humanity.
When foreigners respect our songs and soak in our water it proves that love is the only language of celebration" he said. The festival concludes with the hope of washing away the misfortunes of the past year to welcome a peaceful future.
