Myanmar, a land steeped in rich history and vibrant culture, is home to a range of myths and legends that have been passed down through generations. These stories reflect cultural beliefs, values and the diverse ethnic groups within Myanmar. In this article we will be exploring the fascinating tale of the Giant Spider of Pindaya and following this, I would like to invite you to embark on a journey through the captivating world of Myanmar Myths, each article unlocking a different legend, uncovering different perspectives and the cultural significance they hold. From mythical creatures and heroic kings to unexplainable appearances of “ghost towns”, let us uncover the heart and soul of Myanmar’s heritage. 

Pindaya
The shimmering marvels of Shwedagon Pagoda and the Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda ranks among Myanmar’s most stunning attractions, but neither is considered the country’s most unusual. That title belongs to the Pindaya Caves, located in the proximity of Heho or Lake Inle (Myanmar’s Shan State). Be amazed by thousands of Buddha statues that are stuffed from the floor to the ceiling in an extraordinary array of shapes, sizes, and styles. Even then, this 150 meters long cave is the only one out of the three caves that is open to the public.

“I’ve got the Spider!”
To get into the complex, visitors have to make their way through the Shwe U Min Pagoda, climb a long staircase, and pass by a towering 40-foot-high sitting Buddha. But the real surprise awaits at the entrance of the pagoda. 

A surreal sculpture of a giant spider awaits at the entrance of the pagoda along with a fashionably golden-dusted prince who stood aiming his sharp-edged crossbow at the giant spider.

Pindaya takes its name from a local legend. According to the tale, seven princesses who were bathing in the lake below were seized by a giant spider living in the caves, and it was down to brave Prince Kummabhaya and his longbow to rescue the princesses who were trapped, and as the prince defeated the spider he yelled “Pinku Ya-Phy!” meaning “I’ve got the spider!” Over the centuries, this would eventually evolve to become the current name, Pindaya. 

Next issue, we will be heading to the eerily still graveyards and cemeteries of Myanmar, where we will explore the world of Ma Phae Wah, the guardian spirit of the dead. 

Hnin Eaindra Shine@ Hannah
PISM, Myanmar

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Citation

Peter Watson, (2021, February 2). “The Place Where a Giant Spider Stands Guard Over a Cave Filled with 9,000 Buddha Statues,”. https://www.fodors.com/world/asia/myanmar/experiences/news/the-place-where-a-giant-spider-stands-guard-over-a-cave-filled-with-9000-buddha-statues, accessed 21, September 2024  

Marilyn Murphy, (2015, January 28). “Burma 2015: 8,000 Buddhas and one really big spider, Day 10” https://togetherwomenrise.org/burma-2015-8000-buddhas-and-one-really-big-spider/, accessed 16, September 2024

Quivertree Family Expeditions (2011, October 29). “Myanmar/ Burma with Kids: Giant Spiders at the Pindaya Caves.” https://quivertreeworld.com/myanmar-burma-with-kids-pindaya/, accessed 16, September 2024 

Tony C, (2016, February 22). “The Archer and the Spider inspires legend.”, Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g612366-d2615900-r349906844-Pindaya_Caves-Pindaya_Shan_State.html, accessed 21, September 2024