The kindness and compassion instilled in Prince Mahasattva was transformative. Once a hunter intent on taking life, he went on to become a protector. He sacrificed himself to protect the very creature he once pursued. His noble deed earned profound reverence, and his funeral was conducted with great honor. Queen Satyawati, together with Princes Mahadeva and Mahapranab, remained at Prince Mahasattva’s burial site in mourning for a month.
In remembrance of Avayadan Day, an annual tradition of lighting ghee and oil lamps at his tomb is observed from the night of Chaturdashi (the 14th day of the lunar calendar) until mid-day of Purnima (the full moon). This enduring practice, regarded as a symbol of enlightenment, continues to this day. It is believed that Maha Mang Manju Sri paid homage to the tomb of Prince Mahasattva while visiting Kali Daha (Kathmandu Valley). The tomb of Prince Mahasattva has been revered since Gautama Buddha paid homage with the sacred words Na:Ma Buddha nearly 2,500 years ago, making it a timeless symbol of selfless sacrifice and a source of inspiration in the teachings of compassion and lifesaving for others.
There are limited historical records and minimal archaeological evidence from the Kirat regime. However, some historical records and artifacts trace back to the reign of King Manadev I of the Licchavi period, who promoted the teachings of Avadāna. It is believed that the stone sculpture depicting Queen Satyawati with Princes Mahadeva and Mahapranab in her lap was made in his time and placed atop the tomb of Na:Ma Buddha.
A priest from the Bajracharya caste was appointed to conduct daily puja, chanting, and ceremonial rituals at this sacred site. To ensure the sustainability of religious practices, King Manadev I established a Guthi—a traditional socio-economic institution—to provide resources for the livelihood of the priest’s family and to support the regular and occasional functions at Na:Ma Buddha. He also commissioned the construction of Chivadyo (small chaityas) at four corners of the tomb. These sacred structures have been preserved and remain visible to this day.
In the Dunhuang Valley of Gansu Province, the starting point of the Silk Road in China, the Thousand Buddha Caves, featuring Buddhist art, began to take form in 366 under the patronage of the Wei Dynasty. It is said that 15 percent of the work was completed in the 12th century. Interestingly, during the reign of Emperor Kublai Khan of the Yuan Dynasty, around 1274, a team of Nepali artisans led by Balabahu Pahari from Khopasi, Nepal, known in China as Araniko, reached Mongolia, and the Thousand Buddha Caves were completed. In Cave Number 254, a Na:Ma Buddha Temple (Chaitya) includes wall paintings depicting a royal hunting scene around the temple. Similarly ancient artworks i.e., life cycle of Namo Buddha in thangkas, have been discovered in monasteries across Southeast Asia. These depict the story of Takmo Lüjin in China, Wyl stag mo Lus Sbyin in Tibet, the self-sacrifice to the hungry tigress in Sri Lanka, and related themes in other countries. Whether consciously or unconsciously, the awareness of Avadāna continued to grow and flourish over time, carried across regions through the Silk Road.
About 400 years ago, Himetanjen Dharke, Top Ten Syakiya, and Sri, three incarnated lamas, sat meditating at the place where Prince Mahasattva attained Bodhisattva. At the same time they made five bigger stupas on the tomb behind the main temple. Centuries later, in 1973, a merchant from Ason in Kathmandu renovated the main Na:Ma Buddha Temple and its statue to sustain the teachings of Avayadan for future generations.
In addition to daily rituals such as puja, chanting, and the weekly ghee lighting every Wednesday, several special observances are held throughout the year. On every Purne (full moon day), devotees come together for a sacred celebration. Mahasattva Enlightenment Day, the most significant annual event, is observed on the night of Chaturdashi and the day of Purne in the month of Kartik. This occasion is marked by grand ceremonies and spiritual gatherings. Likewise, a metal idol of Mahasattva was crafted during the Malla period, around three hundred years ago to honor his mercy and educate people on benevolent compassion. This idol has since been featured in various local carnivals. Mahasattva’s birth anniversary is joyfully celebrated in his birthplace, Panauti, with a vibrant carnival held three days before Kuse Aunsi (Father’s Day). Every 12 years, a grand month-long celebration takes place in Kathmandu, drawing pilgrims and visitors from near and far to honor his legacy of unconditional and selfless compassion.
Buddhist families and their friends visit Na:Ma Buddha to pay homage and offer ghee lamps, praying for peace for the souls of their departed loved ones as part of sacred rituals. It is believed that making this pilgrimage at least once in a lifetime is a vital act of spiritual fulfillment. These ongoing rituals and observances not only preserve sacred traditions but also serve as a living testament to the story of Na:Ma Buddha, nurturing a deeper sense of peace and harmony within families and communities around the world.
