On June 2, 264 years ago, on the 8th waning day of the 2nd month (the phase when the moon’s surface is less visible from earth) in the year 1119 of the Mon/Burmese Lunar Calendar, the Hongsarwatoi (Pegu) kingdom fell.
Known as the Mon Kingdom Hongarwatoi Fallen Day, ceremonies of remembrance were held in Mon communities.
According to Mon historical records, the Kingdom was destroyed by the occupation of the Bamar King Ahlaung Phaya (Aung Zaya). Hundreds of thousands of Mon monks, Mon people and soldiers were executed under King Aung Zaya’s occupation.
Mon people celebrate the fallen day not just to remember the monarchy system, but so that young people know that the Mon people had a sovereign kingdom for thousands of years.
“With this current situation, no central event was allowed. So the Mon community held events in their community. Nearly every Mon village held an event, so that young people could learn about the Hongsarwatoi fallen day,” said Nai Tala Nyi, member of the Central Executive Committee of the Mon Unity Party.
Nai Tala Nyi indicated that because there was no central level planning committee, no statements, banners, or remembrance T-shirts could be produced.
“Since the situation is not stable, those of us working at the Mon Youth Forum could not collaborate with civil society organizations in townships and we could not release any statements. But on the bright side, every village and township held an event to mark Hongsarwatoi Fallen Day,” said Min Mon Htaw, of Mon Youth Forum (MYF).
Mon youth across the country and even those abroad held events and wore black-colored shirts. They provided meals and offered attendees an opportunity to light candles while praying for the fallen Mon Kings and Queens, heroes and martyrs.
“From knowing our history, we can then do our best for the future. It is necessary for every Mon to consider well the importance of having the power of Mon politics, be in the hands of the Mon people. We have been talking about having Mon nation with complete sovereignty. But that is not enough. Everyone must also consider the importance of the Mon nation to be in the hands of the Mon people” said Nai Tala Nye.
