After achieving Nirvana, he then embraked on a missionary career, preaching his message of salvation openly to all "without a closed fist". He then formed an ever - widening community or "Sangha" of mendicant disciples from all castes, including women and lay devotees, and after a long ministry he died at the age of 80. His last memorable words were: 'Transient are all conditional things. Strive after your own salvation diligently.

The death occurred on the full moon day of Vaishaka, as did his birth and Enlightment. The vaishaka Purnima is, therefore, celebrated by the Buddhists as a thrice Sacred Day.