Defence Services C-in-C watches Vidhura Jataka drama

 

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of Defence Services General Ye Win Oo attended a performance of the “Vidhura” Jataka drama staged by the “Thabin Manhon Shwe Yangon” dramatic troupe in accordance with traditional Myanmar customs at Zeyathiri Beikman Theatre Hall in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday evening to preserve the country’s traditional cultural heritage.

The event was also attended by General Ye Win Oo’s wife, Daw Nilar, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services and Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Kyaw Swa Lin, senior military officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services and their wives, the chairman and members of the Myanmar Theatrical Association (Central), and officers and other ranks from various departments under the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army, Navy and Air). The performance was also broadcast live on an LED screen at Nawaday Hall, allowing officers, other ranks and their family members within the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army) compound to watch it simultaneously.

The “Vidhura” Jataka grand drama opened with traditional Myanmar ceremonial scenes, including paying homage to the Buddha and the traditional maiden dance. The performance depicted key episodes from the Jataka, including the enthronement of King Kauravya, a debate among four kings on virtue, Punnaka’s quest for Irandati, his dice game with King Kauravya, and Minister Vidhura’s perilous journey across seven mountain ranges. It also portrayed Vidhura’s encounter with the Naga King, his sermon in the Naga realm and his triumphant return to the kingdom. A duet dance brought the performance to a close.

The “Vidhura” Jataka, the ninth of the Ten Great Jatakas recounting the Buddha’s previous lives, highlights the Bodhisattva Vidhura’s wisdom, truthfulness, moral integrity and steadfastness in upholding righteous principles despite dangers and hardships. The grand drama was staged to promote these virtues, encourage the practice of the four virtues of good people, raise awareness of the dangers of gambling, and inspire audiences to cultivate the seven noble treasures through the lessons of the Jataka.

Following the grand drama performance, the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services presented a flower basket to the artistes who took part in the production and extended words of encouragement and warm greetings to them, according to reports.

MNA/TH

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