LUCKNOW, Nov. 1 -- Revered Buddhist monk Bhante AB Gyanesh Mahasthavir, also known as Bhante Gyaneshwar, passed away at a hospital in Lucknow after a prolonged illness early on Friday. He was 89. Bhante Gyaneshwar's mortal remains are being taken to Kushinagar where his last rites will be performed in accordance with Buddhist traditions on November 10. His key disciple Bhante Nanda Ratna told Hindustan Times, "The date of his cremation has been carefully chosen as he would have completed 90 years on that day." This time period will also allow spiritual leaders, diplomats and devotees from Buddhist-majority countries including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Japan to come and pay their last respects to the departed soul, according to monks associated with him. Born in Myanmar, Gyaneshwar was the president of Buddhist Monks' Association. Expressing his grief over the monk's demise, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath in a post on X wrote, " A lifelong devotee of the principles of Buddhism, he dedicated his life to spreading the wisdom and compassion of Lord Buddha. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Buddhist community and humanity." Paying her tribute to the departed soul, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati in a post on X said Bhante Gyaneshwar was the worthy successor of venerable Bhante Chandramani Mahasthavir, the Dhamma initiation teacher of Dr BR Ambedkar. Bhante Gyaneshwar is remembered for his visionary contributions to Buddhist heritage, most notably the construction of the famous Burmese Pagoda in Kushinagar, which has become a major pilgrimage site attracting devotees from across the world. As the head of several Buddhist institutions, he tirelessly promoted the teachings of Lord Buddha, social harmony, and educational initiatives within both India and abroad. Bhante Gyaneshwar's contributions to Buddhism were recognised internationally. Two years ago, he was conferred the prestigious title of 'Abhidhajamaharatthaguru' by the Government of Myanmar, one of the highest honours in the Buddhist world. Both Myanmar and Sri Lanka had previously awarded him their top cultural and religious distinctions, acknowledging his work in preserving Buddhist heritage and promoting peace. Bhante Gyaneshwar's disciple Bhante Nanda Ratna said: "He wanted to educate people and encourage national progress. His work in Buddhist education and heritage is exemplary, including active involvement in discussions on the revival of Nalanda University." In recognition of his profound knowledge and service to Buddhism, he was also conferred the title of "Aggamahapandita" by the Myanmar government....