China Hands Over Digitized ‘Thu Chit’ Movie to Myanmar to Mark 75 Years of Diplomatic Ties
Yangon, The Gulf Observer: China officially handed over the digitized version of the classic Myanmar film Thu Chit to Myanmar in a ceremony held at MRTV Studio A in Yangon yesterday. The event marked the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and China.
The ceremony was attended by Union Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn, senior officials, Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy to Myanmar Dr. Zheng Zhihong, representatives from the Myanmar Motion Pictures Organization and Myanmar Press Council, and other distinguished guests.
During his opening remarks, Union Minister U Maung Maung Ohn highlighted the powerful role of cinema in fostering cultural exchange and strengthening ties between nations. He emphasized that films serve as a universal language that transcends borders and helps people understand different cultures despite linguistic differences. He expressed hope that Myanmar and China would continue to strengthen their diplomatic relations through collaborations in the film industry.
Following the speech, Minister Counsellor Dr. Zheng Zhihong formally handed over two hard disks containing the digitalized version of Thu Chit. The event also featured a screening of the classic film.
Thu Chit, originally produced by British Burma Film in 1951 and directed by U Chan Tun, is one of Myanmar’s most iconic films. The film, starring A1 Nyunt Maung and May Myint, portrays the lives of farmers and became widely recognized. In 1955, China purchased the film for 2,500 pounds sterling and later dubbed it in Chinese, screening it at the 1957 Asian Film Festival in Beijing, where it gained international acclaim.
To commemorate the 75th anniversary of Myanmar-China diplomatic ties, China restored the film into a high-quality digital format and presented it to Myanmar’s Ministry of Information. The film will soon be broadcast on MRTV channels.
Earlier that morning, Union Minister U Maung Maung Ohn, along with Yangon Region Social Affairs Minister U Htay Aung and officials, inspected the ongoing renovation of the historic Wazira Cinema in Kyauktada Township, Yangon. The cinema, originally built in 1924 and showcasing Beaux-Arts architectural influences, is being upgraded into a modern red-carpet venue.
Situated near the iconic Sule Pagoda, Wazira Cinema is expected to become a major cultural hub, hosting international film festivals, theatrical performances, music concerts, and artistic exhibitions. Additionally, the cinema will serve as a venue for showcasing Myanmar’s ancient cultural heritage, featuring screenings of classic films, puppet shows, and weekend exhibitions.
