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Buddhist circuit worth exploring

BHUBANESWAR: With the thrust being on exploring non-traditional tourist potential in the State, the Mahanadi Buddhist Circuit (MBC) has emerged as an important and worthy investment.

Sources in the Tourism Department have revealed that Tourism Minister Debi Prasad Mishra, who represents the region in the Assembly, has evinced keen interest in the project. Mr. Mishra has appealed to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to prevail upon the Centre to provide resource support for promotion of Buddhist tourism in the State in general and MBC in particular.

An estimated seven million Buddhists inhabit the South Asian nations and they evince a special interest in touring India, Sri Lanka and Nepal, the countries known as the citadel of Buddhism, says an official. Since the Bodhgaya-Benaras-Bhubaneswar Buddhist circuit is being worked upon in the recent years, the MBC could be projected as a major attraction for tourists and pilgrims, he points. In ancient times, the Mahanadi river valley played a pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism, say historians. Besides, several destinations downstream like Baneswarnasi hold enough relevance for Buddhists, feels Mr. Mishra.

While Buddhism has waned in many parts of India, it still has enough influence in Badamba, Narasimhapur, Nuapatna and Tigiria areas. This is reflected in the handloom products of local weavers.

Introduction of water sports and cruise in the Mahanadi within the MBC limits will give a boost to adventure tourism besides giving a push to religious and eco tourism prospects too.

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