Burma / Myanmar: Three Bamar children riding a bicycle rickshaw, the driver's face protected by thanaka powder

The Bamar, also called Burman, are the dominant ethnic group of Burma (Myanmar), constituting approximately two-thirds of the population.

The Bamar live primarily in the Irrawaddy basin, and speak the Burmese language, which is also the official language of Burma. Bamar customs and identity are closely intertwined with general Burmese customs and identity. The Bamar are frequently but inaccurately called Burmese, a term that in modern usage refers to a citizen of Burma of any ethnic background.

Thanaka (also spelt thanakha) is a yellowish-white cosmetic paste made from ground bark. It is a distinctive feature of Myanmar (formerly Burma) seen commonly applied to the face and sometimes the arms of women and girls and to a lesser extent men and boys. The use of thanaka has also spread to neighboring countries including Thailand.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

Oliver Hargreave

Credit:

Pictures From Asia