Publications
Recent Archaeological Research at Śrīkṣetra
Recent archaeological research at Śrīkṣetra, one of the largest and most influential Pyu ancient cities, has revealed significant insights into urban morphology, sociocultural changes, and the dissemination of early South Asian Buddhist traditions in Southeast Asia. Unlike previous efforts spanning over a century, which focused on surveying, recording, and restoration, this study employs systematic excavation and advanced scientific methods to deepen our understanding of Pyu civilization. The findings highlight the dynamic nature of urbanization in early Southeast Asia and its cultural interactions with broader South Asian contexts.
Sri Ksetra Museum Collection Inventory
The Sri Ksetra Museum Collection Inventory highlights the cultural and historical significance of the Pyu Ancient Cities, which were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2014. These cities, including Halin, Beikthano, and Sri Ksetra, represent a pivotal transition from Bronze-Iron Age chiefdoms to early Buddhist kingdoms in mainland Southeast Asia, spanning over a thousand years (B.C 200 to A.D 900). The study focuses on the Sri Ksetra Archaeological Museum's collection of approximately 265 artifacts, which include burial urns with Pyu inscriptions, Buddha images, Brahmanical statues, terracotta votive tablets, and other significant objects from the Pyu period. This inventory underscores the unique artistic and iconographic developments of the Pyu civilization, blending Indian traditions with distinct local characteristics in their craftsmanship, particularly evident in beads, ritual pottery, and architectural designs. The research provides a comprehensive overview of the cultural heritage preserved at Sri Ksetra, offering insights into the regional exchange and religious practices of the Pyu Kingdoms.
Sri Ksetra, 3rd Century BCE to 6th Century CE: Indianization, Synergies, Creation
Archaeological research challenges the long-held narrative of Indianization in Southeast Asia, revealing that the Pyu cities of Myanmar underwent significant cultural and architectural transformations between the 3rd century BCE and 6th century CE. Contrary to George Coedès' theory of a rapid transition from Neolithic to Hindu-influenced societies, this study highlights the nuanced, gradual processes of Indianization, with enduring impacts on script, religion, art, and architecture. The research employs epigraphic and archaeological evidence to reinterrogate the timing, human agencies, and driving forces behind these changes, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the Pyu civilization's syncretic cultural landscape.
World heritage sustainable development policy & local implementation: Site management issues using a case study of Sri Ksetra at Pyu ancient cities in Myanmar
A key finding from this study is that the implementation of UNESCO's World Heritage sustainable development policy often faces challenges due to mismatches between formal policy goals and local management practices, even when participatory models are intended. The research focuses on Sri Ksetra, part of Myanmar's Pyu Ancient Cities to analyze how site management practices can hinder community involvement in conservation efforts. The study highlights the need for both robust policy frameworks and practical, inclusive conduct by management systems to effectively integrate sustainable development into heritage conservation. It underscores that successful implementation requires alignment between policy statements and on-the-ground actions.
Achievement of Ancient Myanmar Kings for Irrigation System
Ancient Pyu cities in Myanmar, predating King Anawrahta's reign, demonstrated advanced irrigation systems with reservoirs, lakes, and canals to ensure a steady water supply for agriculture. These systems were highly systematic and employed methods of irrigated cultivation along the Ayeyarwady River basin and flooded plains. Beikthano, Sriksetra, and Kyaukse are notable for their ancient weirs, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Myanmar kings in managing water resources efficiently.
The Pyu Ancient Cities World Heritage application: lessons from Myanmar on transnational advocacy networks
The World Heritage listing of Pyu Ancient Cities in Myanmar marked the country's first site on the UNESCO list, achieved through a transnational advocacy network. This study reveals how such networks can effectively mobilize support across borders to advance conservation efforts against governmental challenges. By analyzing the Pyu case, researchers developed a model demonstrating the efficacy of these networks in advocating for cultural heritage protection. The approach involved examining the convergence of local and international forces, highlighting the role of transnational collaboration in securing global recognition for significant archaeological sites.
Archaeological Researches on the Excavated Finds at the Ancient City of Wadee
A newly discovered ancient site, Wadee, sheds light on Myanmar's prehistoric period and its connection to the Pyu civilization. Located near Phayagyi Village in Central Myanmar, Wadee is one of several circular-walled cities, smaller than major Pyu sites like Srikshetra but larger than Thagara in Dawe. The excavation reveals varied remains that provide insights into Wadee's past and its relationship with other Pyu sites and earlier periods, including the Samon culture. This study contributes to understanding the broader context of Myanmar's pre-historic era by analyzing excavated finds, offering a glimpse into a previously unfamiliar ancient human settlement.
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