Some are feeling that Burmese culture has been changing

At a time international culture is spreading to every corner of the world, do you think this lovely Burmese tradition remains in tact?

Customarily, Burmese people also look after their parents and relatives, taking care of their social security especially when they become aged.

Has this tradition been eroded or transformed in some way?

Do you think this culture could be maintained and, if yes, how?

Some of the emails from the Listeners

The decline of Buddhism in Burma has also witnessed the decline of compassion. Only the outward form of religion remains such as rituals and ceremonies but the true spirit of Buddhism which is compassion and kindness is dead and no longer lives in the hearts of the people especially the rich and wealthy. Buddha referred to the disappearance of his teachings over time and that they would only pay lip service until a new Buddha arose. That new Buddha has already appeared and I follow Him. Until the world turns to Him there will be no compassion, kindness or love.
Joe Sydney, Australia

Burmese culture has been deeply rooted in many people since the youngsters. Globalization might have eroded some culture in urban areas. If the government supports true "Burmanization" or merging modern and traditional concepts together by not copying the western culture, the Burmese culture could properly be maintained. For example, Japan, on the other hand, has maintained its tradition despite it is changing to modern culture. It is the duty of every citizen to maintain our culture.
Nick, Singapore

Culture is a big subject to discuss. Culture is not only Music, painting, fashion clothing, and architecture. They are just the mask of the culture. Under culture there are four titles, (1) Who we are (2) What we do (3) How we live (4) What we believe. It is very good to take care of older people by their own children. If there is a great social security system, will Burmese people be willing to accept it? According to 2003 census of Burma, about three quarter of the population is able working people. What if the government collect 3% of workers' income as retirement fund and give it to older people as allowance? Will it be better than individual child taking care of the parents? There are so many other ways to help older parents out as a good Burmese. If such a system exists, will such modern system conflict with our culture? My own opinion is whatever makes our people's life secured and comfortable, we should accept it. There are so many other ways to maintain old traditions. Look at Japan, for example, there are hardly any Japanese wearing Kimonos, but everyone knows how proud themselves as being Japanese. My suggestion is be wise and look from every corner. As long as we know, every Burmese feels no one can take away our pride as a Burmese. Culture and tradition is in the heart, what we do is only part of it. Teach our children how to live as a good Burmese and carry on our tradition. Thank you BBC.
Tom Tun, Calgary, Canada,

SPDC's way of modernization still lacks quality. The generals should stop doing things for our beloved Country. The more they do, the more they destroy. Nothing good comes out of this regime. The best thing they can contribute to our country is relinquishing power to the people. There are many smart people in Burma compare to General Than Shwe and his stooges. Military dictatorship destroys everything including traditions and cultures. That's correct. Ruling a nation with weapon will never build the nation. The rule of the real law (not orders from one person) is necessary in rebuilding Burma.
Zam, Mang, USA

Burmese children are taught to love and respect their parents and elderly. There are 5 duties of Sons and Daughters: look after parents just like they did to you, help parents, deserve the right to heir, give donations, and protect your family. In order to maintain this beautiful tradition, we all are responsible especially parents. I myself have been living abroad for more than four years now, but I always remember how I had been raised. I prepare myself to adapt to the current environment, but still maintain my own traditional culture- pay respect to my parents, older and elderly people. I will say that modernization has not affected my way of thinking. In contrast, I love my family more and want to look after my parents more than ever before.
Nan Skog, Finland

I don't agree modernization or globalization can change the traditional culture.
Kaung Myat Thu, Oslo, Norway