Lethwei Challenge Gesture - Lek Kha Moun - Symbol of Lethwei - Burmese Boxing - The Art of 9 limbs

The lek kha moun is the traditional gesture performed by Lethwei fighters to challenge their opponents with courage and respect. The lek kha moun is done by clapping 3 times with right palm to the triangle shaped hole formed while bending the left arm. The clapping hand must be in form of a cup, while the left hand must be placed under the right armpit or the right chest. The lek kha moun is done at the beginning of the Lethwei yay and can also be done while fighting.
This invitation to fight is inspired from the birds of prey, like the eagle, as they flap their wings when flying and hunting.
It is important to note that many individuals incorrectly perform the traditional Lek Kha Moun ritual by tapping their right palm on their upper left arm or deltoid area while attempting to imitate Lethwei fighters. This includes not only Lethwei fans and practitioners, but also some professional fighters who may lack interest in Lethwei culture or have received insufficient guidance from their coaches and mentors. It is unfortunate that some Lethwei trainers and coaches view the sport solely as a means to escape poverty, rather than recognizing it as a national sport. Unlike Muay Thai, Lethwei organizations and federations often prioritize business and profit over the art itself. As a result, foreign Lethwei fighters and fans often promote the sport more than those who are Myanmar nationals and members of the Lethwei federation.
Due to Myanmar being colonized by the British, Lethwei, a traditional martial art, was banned and discouraged to the point of near extinction. It was only after the country gained independence that Lethwei was revised by a small number of practitioners from the Mon, Karen, and Tanintharyi states of Myanmar. Despite gaining popularity in the past decade, Myanmar has recently faced a military coup, causing the country to regress. As a result, the people of Myanmar are currently preoccupied with fighting for their survival and democracy, leaving little time to focus on Lethwei. This helps to explain why Lethwei is not as well-known as Muay Thai. It's important to note that many in the West are unfamiliar with Myanmar, whereas Thailand is a more widely known country. As a Myanmar national living in the West, I have found that when I mention my country, Myanmar or Burma ( old name ) few people are aware of it.
( Note - Lek Kha Moun is used in all martial arts originated in Myanmar. Thaing Bando , Thaing Banshay and Thaing Byaung Pyan practitioners do Lek Kha Moun as part of their forms )
Liger Paing
United Myanmar Bando Nation

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Hey,how many martial styles have ?