Military council leader Min Aung Hlaing and his wife Kyu Kyu Hla have visited Kyaingtong since May 23rd to meet with their revered Wacipate monk, according to military sources. The visit was primarily arranged at the monk’s invitation, during which they participated in the foundation ceremony of the Lawka Thayarzu Pagoda and attended a hospital opening ceremony at the Pan Kway Buddhist Garden being constructed under the monk’s guidance. The Buddhist garden is located approximately 15 miles southeast of Kyaingtong city and has been under construction since early 2015, following designs inspired by Bodh Gaya in India.
The Buddhist garden complex includes the Abhaya Rajamuni Buddha image, the Satta Sattaha Maha Bodhi Pagoda, and a replica of the Lawka Thayarzu Pagoda. The entire garden has been constructed incorporating various traditional rituals, ceremonies, and astrological elements. Local sources indicate that this garden project represents the successful fulfillment of Wacipate Sayadaw’s vision, who had previously helped arrange various ceremonies for Min Aung Hlaing’s military career advancement during his time as regional commander.
Known formally as Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Kovida, the Wacipate Sayadaw of Thila Dhamma Hill Forest Monastery in Kyaingtong has been Min Aung Hlaing’s spiritual advisor since his days as a regional commander, regularly performing ceremonies for him. During the era of former dictator Than Shwe, the monk performed various rituals that reportedly helped secure Min Aung Hlaing’s promotions and eventual appointment as military chief. As a result, Min Aung Hlaing, Kyu Kyu Hla, and their entire family maintain strong faith in the Wacipate Sayadaw.
Military sources also reveal that prior to the February 1, 2021 military coup, Min Aung Hlaing and Kyu Kyu Hla consulted with the Wacipate Sayadaw regarding the coup plans and requested specific ceremonies to be performed. Min Aung Hlaing, who resides in Naypyidaw, regularly sends military helicopters to bring the Wacipate Sayadaw for various purposes including offering meals, performing chants at his residence, and arranging astrological ceremonies as needed.
