Pawapuri

Pawapuri is a holy site for the Jains. It is situated in the Nalanda district of Bihar state in Eastern India. A long time ago, Pawapuri was the twin capital of Mall Mahajanpad. Mahajanpad later became a part of the kingdom of Magadha and Ajatshatru was a devotee of Lord Mahavira. During the rule of Ajatshatru, the king of Pawapuri was known as Hastipal. When in Pawapuri, Mahavira stayed in the Rajikshala of the king. It is considered as a sacred place because Lord Mahavira was buried here in 500 BC.

Pawapuri has also been given the name Apapuri meaning sinless town since Lord Mahavira was cremated here. After the cremation had been done, there was a rush while collecting the ashes which led to the removal of a layer of soil thereby resulting in the formation of a pond. This pond was later converted into a lotus pond, and a marble temple named Jalmandir was built in the centre of the pond. The place is very rich in culture and has high heritage value. Some traditional festivals celebrated here include Rajgir Dance Festival and Chhath Puja. Various classical dances are performed in the Rajgir Dance Festival.