Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister, has announced that the name of Fazil Nagar town in Kushinagar will be changed to Pawagarh as it has a close historical and religious association with Mahavira. The announcement was made at a public function in Kushinagar, at which the Chief Minister laid the foundation stones and inaugurated 272 development projects, worth more than ₹400 crore.
The renaming is being done by the state government as a part of its campaign to give the original cultural and historical identity to the important places, Yogi Adityanath said. The Jain scholars and religious groups have always believed that the city of Fazil Nagar is the ancient city of Pava, where Lord Mahavir had attained Nirvana. In the past, the name Pawagarh has been used by the Jain devotees and the government feels it is a good idea to bring this tradition back as this will enhance the spiritual importance of the region.
The Chief Minister said that the move will lead to advancement of religious tourism and will draw visitors who have an interest in the Jain heritage. He also said that he would work towards strengthening the tourism infrastructure, conserving historical sites and making the town a significant religious site.
In his speech, Yogi spoke about the change that has taken place in Uttar Pradesh under the BJP rule. He said the state was in a different place than it is today, when it is emphasizing infrastructure, investment and defense manufacturing. He added that the government had taken actions to effectively fight organized crime and establish a safer environment for citizens and businesses, referring to law and order.
The renaming proposal is likely to further strengthen the historical and cultural stature of the town and its association with one of the revered Jain personalities.