We were driving around Bagan when we happened upon a Novitiation Ceremony. It’s a ceremony of ordination and Novitiation. Burma Buddhists strongly believe in the importance of them and their sons being initiated into novice-hood, as monks. If men and their sons do not become novice monks, then as parents, they might suffer in hell in their next existence. A monk is a very noble life for Buddhists. The Burmese Buddhist tradition is for boys at ages 8 and 20 to enter the order for at least a week or more. Boys could, of course, stay for a lifetime, but that’s not necessary.

To become a novice, the boy must overcome three steps. He must shave his head, wear the robe, and believe in Buddha. The first two are parts of the Novitiation ceremony. The third, of course, is the most difficult.

This is a really big ceremony. It appeared to me to cost a small fortune. If people are less fortunate, sometimes others in the community will donate money towards the family of the novice. There is a really long parade with the whole family participating. The parade usually goes to a famous pagoda and goes around it. There is a big feast for the monks and invited guests. There is also lots of loud music for dancing and amusement.

1. This is the novice-to-be. He is supposed to be dressed as a Prince. I’m not sure why the lipstick, earrings, and all. Perhaps that’s how a Burmese prince would dress. He hasn’t had his head shaved yet. He is riding a small horse.

2. The novice’s sisters are also a big part of the parade. They come after him and get their ears pierced as part of the ceremony, though I’m not sure about the connection.

3. This is the start of the parade with the novitiate in front. After him comes his brothers, cousins, etc. The girls and family are farther back in the parade.

4. This is farther back in the parade and not even the end. More carriages were still coming out from the courtyard.

5. This was the end of the parade. It’s a cart that is hand-pushed. On the cart is a “stereo” with a generator for power and some enormous speakers. Burma Buddhists love loud music. To really appreciate this ceremony, you really needed to hear the music and noise.

There are many videos on You-tube if you want to see and hear one. Just query Burma Novitiation Ceremony and find a link to videos.