Lotus Robe in Kyaing Khan Village Innlay Lake, Shan State (South): An Anthropological Perspective

Generally, robe is regarded as a Buddhist disciplinary item of significance. It is a piece of clothing for arhats and the Buddha"s disciples and it will be used as long as the Buddha"s Teachings (Sasana) exist. The study area is Kyaing Khan Village, Innlay Lake, Nyaung Shwe Township, Shan State (South). In this study, descriptive study design was used. This study was conducted with qualitative research method including Key Informant Interviews (KII), Direct Observation (DO), Indirect Observation (IO), Individual In-depth Interviews (IDI), Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Participant Observation (PO). The aim of this study is to explore the social values on robe made from lotus fiber. In order to achieve the aim, the specific objectives are adopted: they are to present the historical background of robe made from lotus fiber, and the techniques they use in making lotus robe; to elicit how they transmit the techniques of making lotus robe to the next generation; and to explore social value on lotus robe. Innthar nationals produce lotus-fiber-woven robes by using natural resources available in Innlay region. The Innthar nationals are proud of weaving lotus robe because they are spiritually delighted when offering it as a monastic requisite to the monks. It is found out that the Innthar nationals at Kyaing Khan are proud of how they earn their living while trying to hand over the traditional customs of heritage to the next generation.