Centres of Culture and Tourism : Stupa, Kushinagar
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | INDIPEX 97 |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | June 6, 1997 |
| Denomination | Rs. 11 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Printing Process | Offset Lithography |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1552 Stamp Number IN 1631 Yvert et Tellier IN 1325 Stanley Gibbons IN 1716 |
| Themes | Elephants | Logos | Philatelic Exhibitions | Temples |
Sacred Monument of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana
Stupa of Kushinagar in Kushinagar is one of the most revered Buddhist monuments in the world. It marks the sacred place where Gautama Buddha is believed to have passed away and attained Mahaparinirvana.
For Buddhists across the globe, Kushinagar is a place of peace, remembrance, and spiritual reflection.
Historical Importance of Kushinagar
Kushinagar holds immense significance in Buddhist history because it was here that Lord Buddha spent his final moments and entered Mahaparinirvana after a lifetime of teaching compassion, wisdom, and the path to liberation.
This event made Kushinagar one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations in Buddhism.
What Is Mahaparinirvana?
Mahaparinirvana refers to the final liberation attained by Buddha at the time of death, free from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
It symbolizes:
- Ultimate peace
- Freedom from suffering
- Completion of the spiritual journey
- Eternal wisdom
The Stupa of Kushinagar
The Stupa of Kushinagar stands as a sacred memorial to this profound event.
Importance of the Stupa
- Marks the site associated with Buddha’s passing
- Major center of Buddhist pilgrimage
- Symbol of peace and spiritual fulfillment
- Preserves ancient Buddhist heritage
Pilgrims visit the stupa to offer prayers, meditate, and honor the teachings of Buddha.
Kushinagar as a Global Pilgrimage Site
Today, Kushinagar welcomes visitors from many countries, especially Buddhist communities from Asia and beyond.
People travel there to:
- Visit the sacred stupa
- Pay respects to Buddha
- Study Buddhist history
- Practice meditation
- Experience spiritual calm
Cultural and Archaeological Significance
The Stupa of Kushinagar represents:
- India’s ancient Buddhist heritage
- Historic architecture
- Spiritual devotion
- International religious importance
- Preservation of sacred memory
It remains one of the most treasured heritage sites in Uttar Pradesh.
Kushinagar in Philately
The Stupa of Kushinagar was featured in a commemorative stamp issued in the Indepex ’97 World Philatelic Exhibition cultural heritage stamp series.
The stamp recognized Kushinagar as the sacred place of Mahaparinirvana and an important symbol of India’s spiritual legacy.
Legacy of Stupa, Kushinagar
Today, the Stupa of Kushinagar stands as a timeless reminder of Buddha’s teachings of compassion, peace, and liberation.
Kushinagar continues to inspire millions with its message of serenity, wisdom, and the eternal path toward enlightenment.
First Day Cover
