Lord Buddha, also known as Gautama Buddha, breathed his last in Kushinagar, an ancient city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This significant event is known as Mahaparinirvan, which marks his passing away and final release from the cycle of rebirth.
The Sacred Site of Mahaparinirvan
Gautama Buddha attained Mahaparinirvan at the age of 80 years old in 483 B.C. Kushinagar holds profound religious importance for Buddhists worldwide as it is one of the four principal pilgrimage sites associated with the Buddha's life. It is here that he entered Parinirvana, the ultimate state of enlightenment and liberation from earthly existence, following his physical death.
The town of Kushinagar is dotted with various stupas and temples commemorating this pivotal moment. These sites serve as a powerful reminder of Buddha's final days and teachings.
Key Details of Lord Buddha's Passing
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Age | 80 years old |
| Year | 483 B.C. |
| Significance | Mahaparinirvan (The Great Complete Nirvana or final passing from earthly existence) |
Notable Sites in Kushinagar
Visitors to Kushinagar can explore several significant locations that commemorate Lord Buddha's Mahaparinirvan:
- Mahaparinirvan Temple: This temple houses a colossal 6.1-meter-long reclining statue of Buddha, carved from Chunar sandstone, depicting him at the moment of his passing. It is a deeply revered site for pilgrims.
- Ramabhar Stupa: Located nearby, this large stupa is believed to be the cremation site of Lord Buddha. Its towering presence signifies the place where his earthly remains were interred.
- Matha Kuar Shrine: This shrine features a magnificent black stone image of Buddha, dating back to the 10th century, where he is depicted seated in the Bhumisparsha Mudra (earth-touching gesture).
Understanding the historical and spiritual context of Kushinagar provides deeper insight into the final journey of one of the world's most influential spiritual leaders.
For more information on Kushinagar's significance in Buddhism, you can explore resources like Wikipedia's page on Kushinagar.
