Min Thein Kha

Min Theinkha was a prominent Burmese writer, astrologer and political prisoner. He began his literary career in 1976, adopting the pseudonym Min Theinkha, and wrote hundreds of novels and short stories throughout his career, including notable works such as Manusari, Ponna Ba Kun and Sanay Maung Maung. He is renowned for his series of detective novels set in Colonial Burma, where the protagonist, Sarpalin Hnin Maung, embodies a character archetype deeply influenced by Sherlock Holmes. He was also a well-known astrologer and later taught astrology from his compound in Yangon Region's Hmawbi Township.

Early life

Min Theinkha was born Aye Nyunt on 25 June 1939 in Kyaukmyaung, now part of Yangon's Tamwe Township, as the eldest of six children in a destitute family. His father painted signboards. He adopted the name Aung Htun when he began to attend school.
At the age of 15, he began writing short novels, using the pen name Aung Soe.

Death

He died on 1 August 2008 at a private hospital in Kamayut Township in Yangon.

Personal life

Min Theinhka was married thrice, to two women. He married Aye Aye Shwe at the age of 18; the couple divorced during the same year, and remarried again in 1980. He married another woman after settling in Chauk; the couple had Min Theinhka's only child, a son.