CA Country Anthems

Myanmar National Anthem History

Kaba Ma Kyei · ကမ္ဘာမကျေ

Saya Tin's "Kaba Ma Kyei," initially a nationalist party song from 1930, was adopted as Myanmar's national anthem in 1947. Its history includes the composer's arrest and its eventual official adoption with minor text changes.

Myanmar Kaba Ma Kyei

Myanmar

Language
Burmese
Anthem
Kaba Ma Kyei
Duration
0:39
Status
Today, two versions of the anthem are used—a short one internationally and a longer one domestically—and singers customarily bow after performing it.

History timeline

  1. 1930

    Saya Tin composes "Kaba Ma Kyei" for a nationalist group, first performing it on July 20.

  2. 1930

    Saya Tin is arrested for inciting rebellion and imprisoned until 1946.

  3. 1947

    A committee adopts Tin's composition, "Kaba Ma Kyei," with minor text alterations for the future anthem.

  4. 1947

    On September 22, the final text correction is made, making it official upon independence in 1948.

  5. 1988

    A lyrical adjustment is presumably made following the country's change of name to Myanmar.

Singers performing the anthem must give a small bow upon its conclusion, as a sign of respect for the anthem and the nation.