Thanaka
Thanaka, a yellow-white paste, has been a staple of Burmese skincare and culture. It soothes the skin, protecting it against the sun’s harmful UV rays. The Burmese started using Thanaka around the Pyu Civilization, one of the earliest recorded civilizations in Myanmar. Traditionally, Thanaka is prepared by grinding the Thanaka tree bark on a stone slab known as a Kyauk Pyin with water. While modern pre-made versions exist, the handmade method remains a significant tradition in Myanmar.  Thanaka has survived every indignity that Myanmar has gone through such as British colonial times, military coups, and civil wars. Thanaka has remained a constant in my culture, identity, and representation of the resilience of the Burmese. My great-grandma shared her experiences of how the British, during their colonial time, would beat up the Burmese for wearing Thanaka. She proudly said “I have never stopped wearing Thanaka. I will never fear representing my culture.” while I was staring at her wrinkles.   During childhood, I wore Thanaka daily, applied by my mother on my cheeks and forehead. I would even eat it sometimes if there was an extra paste of Thanaka. Burmese wear Thanaka not just for its beauty benefits but as an expression of our heritage. For me, Thanaka represents my carefree childhood, a link to my ancestors, and the warmth and love I received. No matter where life takes me, Thanaka will always be a part of who I am. 

– Toe Chit Lwin

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant