Update from Webu Ingyinbin: Earthquake and Cultural Reverence
In the aftermath of the March 28, 2025 earthquake in Myanmar, we received some updates from a deeply respected member of our monastic network. Below is a letter sharing those reflections.
Dear Friend,
I wanted to share an important update following a recent conversation I had with U Mandala from Webu Ingyinbin. He first reached out to us a few days after the March 28, 2025 earthquake, briefly inquiring about our safety. Yesterday, we were able to speak again, and I was relieved to hear that he and his monastic disciples are safe and well.
Reflecting on the day of the earthquake, U Mandala shared, “On that day, it noticeably shook! It was strong. We felt it severely, too!” While no one in the monastery was injured, there was some structural damage: cracks appeared on the platform of the Kan Oo Pagoda—a golden steel pagoda he built near the lake—as well as on the wall of a recently constructed brick building.
As is the case across much of the country in the post-coup reality, the monastery continues to face significant hardship, particularly in terms of food supplies, due to the ongoing economic struggles of the surrounding villagers. Despite this, U Mandala expressed deep appreciation for the concern shown by his international Dharma friends. He mentioned receiving a message via Viber from an Australian yogi, one of his former meditation students, who reached out to check on his safety and that of the monastery. He hopes to share photos soon, once internet access becomes available again.
It is a great relief to know that the Ingyinbin monastery community—both monastic and lay—remains safe, especially considering its location just 92 kilometers northwest of the earthquake’s epicenter in Sagaing.
On a more somber note, we also heard troubling news from Kyaukse, near the Webu Mountain, about the Kyauk Thittar Pagoda (Stone Box Pagoda), which teetered dangerously on the edge of collapse atop Shwe Thar Lyaung Mountain. Initially, local authorities ordered the evacuation of nearby residents and considered demolishing the ancient structure with explosives. However, due to deep-rooted cultural beliefs and the historical significance of the site, this plan was ultimately halted. The junta leader later visited the site, reportedly ordering structural assessments and proposing reinforcement efforts to preserve the pagoda in its original location.
This decision has sparked national debate. While some advocate for preservation out of reverence for cultural heritage and long-held stories, others argue that the safety of nearby residents must come first. Reports have even emerged of spiritual disturbances—alleged possessions by the spirit of Manucārī (or “Manu Sari”) and the pagoda’s guardian spirits—along with tales of mysterious illnesses afflicting workers attempting to dismantle the site. As part of appeasement rituals, the local authorities reportedly offered 108 banana bunches in a traditional act of supplication to the spirits.
Folklore surrounding the pagoda includes the tale of Princess Manu Sari, believed to guard a golden stone box containing her lover’s arm and a treasure trove of gems and jewelry—once lent out during festivals and later locked away after items were not returned. These stories continue to hold powerful significance in the hearts of the local people.
Despite the uncertainties and difficulties, we are heartened to know that Webu Sayadaw’s birthplace and the surrounding area remain intact and safe. It is a much-needed piece of good news in these challenging times.
With metta and deep gratitude,
Better Burma’s Monastic Team Leader