“The Golden Land” is the mystical name, Burma is the former name, the “Union of Myanmar” is the official name. Call it what you like, but I have found the people to be full of life, their faith strong and the land enchanting.
Closed off from the rest of the world with barely enough to survive on, these hard working, dedicated people seem to be always full of happiness. A tough, basic life they lead, but it is a life and they do make the most of it.
Traveling to the more remote areas, I have found the people very shy. This shyness is part of what makes them so genuinely beautiful.
The culture is as varied and diverse as the landscape. Bordered by Bangladesh, India, China, Laos and Thailand, you can see these diverse influences as you travel through the different regions. Their hearts have a strong Burmese spirit and they are proud of it.
Buddha images, pagodas and monks can be found everywhere. Festivals celebrating the Nat spirits, young Novice Monks being initiated with ceremonial processions and traditional head shaving. The long lines of Monks and sometimes Nuns in the early morning ritual of accepting simple offerings.
These are some of the symbolic reminders of their faith, but their humble dedication to this faith can be found in all parts of their lives.
My images represent how I see these wonderful people, their faith and their land.
With six trips in five years, this country has grabbed me and won’t let go. I have made many friends here, if only for a moment. But they seem to know that I will be back to “The Golden Land”.
Albert Normandin
