VISHAKHAPATNAM: A pamphlet detailing the important Buddhist sites in north Andhra and elsewhere in the state was released by SGK Kishore, vice-chairman, Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority here today. The literature was released in connection with the two-day Lumbini festival beginning May 6.

The pamphlet listed the Buddhist heritage sites of Thothalkonda, Bhavikonda, Bojjana Konda in Visakhapatnam district as also other heritage sites in the state.

Addressing a meeting organised here today in connection with the forthcoming festival, Kishore said the programmes would include a playlet on Buddhism by a troupe from Hyderabad, a programme by Ghazal Srinivas, Bhajans by KN Chandrasekhar and party, enactment of a play, Chandalika by Sobha Naidu and party and Burrakathas.

The VUDA vice-chairman directed the Tourism Corporation officials to print the logo of the Lumbini festival on the package tour tickets. He also directed BV Suryanarayana, assistant director of the Horticulture Department to complete the painting of hoardings for the Lumbini Utsav by April 30.

An exhibition on the literature and relics of Buddhism will be on display at Thotlakonda, which will be the main venue of the Lumbini festival. Lepakshi would organise a handicrafts exhibition.

Superintendent of Police (Vizag rural) K Narasimha Reddy explained the security measures to be taken in view of the importance attached to the festival.

Prof JM Naidu, registrar, Andhra University, D Panduranga Rao, Tourism officer and district revenue officer T Seetharamayya were among those who participated.