Have you ever heard stories of bravery, miracles, and victory? Here, before us, stands the Yan Aung Myin Cetiya, a stupa steeped in history and legend.
Yan Aung Myin Cetiya, also known as the “Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda”, is more than just a pagoda; It’s a symbol of resilience and faith. It’s said that this pagoda was built during the reign of King Ashoka in the 3rd Century BC to house one of the 84,000 relics of the Buddha.
Back then, the place was known as Naung-Pyin village. It was in the 1st Century AD that King Thamoddarit, a Bagan king, arrived here. During a battle with a Phyu kingdom, he was fatally wounded, desperate for a chance to heal and reclaim victory, he sought solace at the pagoda. His arm healed miraculously, and he won the battle. In gratitude, he renamed the stupa “Yan Aung Myin Stupa” – meaning “Victory Against the Foe”. Since his arm healed so quickly, he also called the pagoda “Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda”, which means “Beautiful Hand”.
Throughout the centuries, the pagoda was maintained and modified by various rulers. King Alaungsithu and King Narapatisithu made changes during the Bagan period. King Mingyi Nyo of Taungoo was a frequent visitor who donated lands for excavation around the stupa. The 1838 earthquake, which devastated the area, caused the Yan Aung Myin Cetiya to collapse but it was later rebuilt.
Today, visitors are greeted by the golden spire, symbolizing a bright future. The Shwe Lett Hla Pagoda is far more than a place of worship; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder that faith can heal any injury.