The ancient city of Amaravati, which has a glorious history of more than 2,500 years, is the inspiration behind the new shining Amaravati the TDP government proposes to develop as the capital of Andhra Pradesh.
But sadly, even while embarking on a mission to create a dazzling new capital, which has been named Amaravati, the tiny original town has been left to languish. The ‘new’ hogs the limelight, while the ‘old’ craves for attention.
Once called Dharanikota, the place gradually started attracting tourists to the Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy temple, which constitutes one of the Pancharama shrines, and the Maha Chaitya (renowned Buddhist monument) on the banks of river Krishna.
A few months ago, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had announced that the new capital had been named after Amaravati.
He also said the historic spot would be developed in all spheres, especially as a tourist hub, ignoring the fact that in the Amaravati gram panchayat, narrow roads, stinking garbage and poor infrastructure greet visitors.
A festive atmosphere prevails in the river-bed villages in Guntur and Krishna districts ahead of the foundation ceremony to be held at Uddandarayunipalem on October 22. But, no arrangements have been made at the Buddhist museum and near the Dhyana Buddha statue.
“Though the government named the new capital city ‘Amaravati’ and promised to develop the historic town, no steps have been taken to spruce up the town and the monuments located in the place,” said locals.
Archaeological museum in-charge N. Venkateswara Rao said he had no information about the visit of tourists to the Buddhist monument during the foundation ceremony.
“We read in newspapers about the visit of prominent persons, including spiritual leaders, celebrities, ambassadors and foreign ministers of various countries.
“But, we have not received any intimation on the arrival of tourists to our site,” Mr. Rao said.
“The government has invited several guests from across the world. If only the officials could decorate Amaravati and arrange a visit of VVIPs to Amaravati during the ceremony on Vijayadasami day, the significance of this place could be highlighted,” said V. Subramanyam, a student.
While a festive atmosphere prevails at Uddandarayunipalem, no arrangements have been made at Buddhist museum and Dhyana Buddha statue to attract visitors
