National Turmoil and Social Instability: Myanmar People Rely on Astrologers for Guidance

(Yangon/Bangkok, 23rd) Myanmar has a long history of divination culture, with many believing that fortune-telling can foresee the future—even telecom companies have launched call-in divination services. Nowadays, fortune-telling has also become a spiritual comfort for many Burmese people, seeking guidance for both their personal lives and the country's prospects.
Myanmar’s politicians hold astrologers in high esteem, often consulting them on national matters. When former military strongman Ne Win changed the traffic rules and required vehicles to drive on the right side of the road, it was based on the advice of astrologers, believing this would shift the country from a left-wing to a right-wing regime.
Thirty-year-old astrologer Lin Ni Odaya says: "Now, the question Myanmar people care most about is: When will Myanmar prosper again?"

Some Myanmar people believe that the upcoming election could even be influenced by Yadaya rituals—a magical ceremony believed to alter fate.
Lin Ni Odaya said: "People in distress seek help from fortune-telling and Yadaya, hoping to find strength and faith within them. What people really want is a safe and stable life and future."
Lin Ni Odaya was once imprisoned for his divination practices. After the military staged a coup and seized power in 2021, he cast spells on junta leader Min Aung Hlaing and urged other astrologers on social media to do the same. As a result, he was arrested and faced charges of creating panic and inciting others to attack the state, and was sentenced to two years in prison.

After his release, Lin Ni Odaya took residence in Bangkok, Thailand, where he offers online divination services to customers back in Myanmar.
Professor Patton, who researches Burmese mysticism at Union College in New York, said: "In Myanmar, I believe this is closely related to the country's underdevelopment, as people have no alternatives. The entire society is filled with uncertainty and vulnerability, and this land is steeped in a thousand years of magic spells, herbal medicines, and mysterious knowledge—long integrated into the collective consciousness of the Burmese people."
Min Dangjue, a 73-year-old fortune-teller in Yangon, interpreted the cards of fate and believes that Myanmar holds great potential in the coming year. "But for any prophecy to be fully realized, three elements are essential: timing, location, and the individual."

"There is still much to be cautious about, and maintaining vigilance is crucial. Just as everyone should possess mindfulness, morality, and wisdom, so too must those in power possess these virtues."