Vedic influence in Myanmar (Burma)

• Burma is an abbreviation of the Sanskrit name Brahmadesh, or the region of Brahma.

• The names of it's rivers are Sanskrit names, such as Irrawati, Brahmaputra and Chindwin (from Chintanvan--a region of forests for meditative seclusion).

• It's cities also have Sanskrit names, such as Rangoon, Prome, Mandalay, Meiktila (Mithila), and the ancient Pragan (city of exquisite temples) all remind one of Burma's Vedic past.

• It's head of state is also known as Adipadi, which is the Sanskrit Adhipati, referring to the chief executive.

• The kings also bore Sanskrit names. Plus, the people enjoy the annual Indian festival of Holi, and throwing colored water and dyes on one and all.

• Hindu temples which are left over in Burma have influence from South Indians. Nanpaya temple is one of them.