As part of the traditional Buddhist festival of Thadingyut, devotees flock to cemeteries to offer food to the spirits of their ancestors.

At the Yay Way cemetery in Rangoon, around 30 people turned out last night to pay respects.

U Naing, one of the organisers, said the ceremony has been held annually for 38 years and takes place on full moon night during this month.

“We believe that the spirits of the dead need to be satisfied,” he said. “We offer food and respect to them, and pray that they reach Heaven.”

[related]

Offerings include beef curry, rice and water or even cigarettes. For the spirits of departed children, snacks and bowls of rice porridge are solemnly laid on their tombs.