Gadha Ashram: Ancient Buddhist Site in Sultanpur, Mentioned by Xuanzang, Faces Neglect

• Gadha Ashram in Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, is an ancient site, believed to be thousands of years old, once a prominent center for Buddhism.
• Chinese traveler Xuanzang mentioned Gadha Ashram in 636 BCE, and it is also cited in the Awadh Gazetteer of 1902 and the Buddhist text Kalama Sutta Pitaka.
• Gautam Buddha reportedly stayed at Kudwar (Keshiputt) for about 6 months, preaching to the Kalamvanshi Kshatriyas.
• Archaeological Survey of India excavations in 1985-86 unearthed Buddhist idols and other evidence, confirming its historical importance.
• Despite its rich history and archaeological findings, Gadha Ashram suffers from neglect, with no significant conservation efforts by governments, though Kabirpanthi Mahatmas currently reside there.

Why It Matters: An ancient Buddhist site in Sultanpur, mentioned by Xuanzang, is neglected despite its historical significance.