The Penny and the Anna

The devoutness of the Shans are well known and acknowledged by the Bamar. There is an old saying, “If a Shan has got an anna, he will donate a penny.” As a penny is worth more than an anna, it reflects the deep wellspring of generosity that Shans are known to have. In modern times, temporary ordination is also less common with the Shan than for the Bamar, and the Shan novitation ceremony features a Tipitika placed upon a beautiful horse leading the procession.