Dec 9, 2008 (DVB), Former actor Kyaw Hein, who became a Buddhist monk on 4 November, has been holding religious discussions this week in Bago, north of Rangoon, according to local residents.

<.p>Kyaw Hein, who is now known as U Keittithara, had wanted to deliver a sermon but was not allowed to because he has not yet completed his religious education.

A local resident said the event began yesterday and would continue over five days.

"The religious discourse is being held at U Keitti monastery near the Silver Pagoda," a local resident said.

"It’s not preaching – he was not allowed to preach because he hasn't received the traditional monk training."

The abbot of the monastery said that the new monk had also recently lectured 300 young people.

"The main subject was common sense, urging them to work hard," the abbot said.

"He shared his knowledge with the congregation by means of a question and answer session."

One follower said the event was to begin with discussions on the concepts of impermanence, suffering and nothingness.

Many local residents are very interested in what U Keittithara has to say due to his fame as an actor and singer.

Reporting by Naw Say Phaw