Pyays

Pyays are the residents of Pyay, a city in the Bago Region of Myanmar, situated along the Irrawaddy River in central Burma. The city, formerly known as Prome, functions as a regional commercial and transportation hub and serves as a center for agriculture and trade in the surrounding countryside.

Historically, Pyay sits on a landscape rich in Pyu heritage. The nearby Pyu-era site of Sri Ksetra is one of the most significant ancient settlements in the region, offering evidence of early urban planning, inscriptions, and culture. Over the centuries, Pyay developed as an important river trade center and later came under various Burmese kingdoms and, in more recent times, colonial administration. The area preserves archaeological and architectural remnants that reflect a long, interconnected history of commerce, religion, and governance.

Demographically, the population of Pyay is largely Bamar, with minority communities present in the surrounding townships. The dominant religion is Theravada Buddhism, and Burmese is the principal language, with local dialects shaping daily life and communication. Cultural activity in Pyay includes pagoda festivals, traditional music, and a vibrant riverfront market scene that anchors social and economic life.

Economically, Pyay relies on agriculture tied to the Irrawaddy’s fertile floodplain, including rice, pulses, and other crops. River transport, trading networks, and small-scale manufacturing support local employment. The city also functions as a gateway for visitors exploring Pyay’s Pyu heritage and Buddhist cultural landscape, contributing to regional tourism and education about Myanmar’s ancient urban traditions.