Culture & Heritage

Kushinagar has its own cultural and historical  importance.

It belongs to the Great Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism, who delivered his last sermon, attained   “Mahaparinirvana” and was cremated at Ramabhar (Kushinagar).Buddha’s cremation was done at  ” Mukut Bandhan” (Ramabhar),  where ‘Mallas’ constructed a big stupa over the ashes. Later, Ashoka, the great, had also renovated it. Chinese travellers, Fa Hien & Hieun Tsang have also mentioned  ” Kushinara ”  in their Travel-Memo.

It is also associated with Lord Mahavir, 24th tirthankar of Jain Sect, founder of Jainism. It is believed that Lord Mahavrir passed away or attained Parinirvana at Pawa. As per Pali Tripitak, Pawa was the second capital of the Mallas, the first being Kushinara. Pawa is now being identified with present day ‘Fazilnagar’,   a place 16 kmssouth – east of Kushinagar.

The district of Kushinagar had been witness to the glorious ancient history and culture. It is believed to be an important centre for Vaishnav, Shiv, Shaktipeeth, Buddha, Mahavir etc. Situtaed on the bank of river Gandak and nearerto the terai of the Himalayas, this region was an ideal ‘Meditation Place’ for sages, saints hermits and Mahatamas who were attracted by its pious. tranquil and charming natural surroundings.  Archeological excavation has yielded rich collection of antiquities. Artistic artifacts and statues of various gods and goddesses.

The significance of this region is also due to being   ‘ Link – route ‘ of ancient highways. Among them were important highways Ayodhya – Janakpur (Bihar), Rajgrih – Vaishali – Shrawasti, Maharshi Valmiki’s Ashram, Ashoka, the great Mauryas, Pillars routes, passing through this district.