Addressing a function to commemorate the 2,550th anniversary of Buddha's salvation, he said that in ancient times Buddhism flourished in this port town. Hundreds of Buddha statues had been unearthed around the town in the past, he pointed out.

Travel accounts by Marcopolo and others point out the Buddhist connections with Nagapattinam. Considering the historical facts, steps would be taken to establish a memorial for Lord Buddha here, he said.

The function was organised by the Information and Publicity Department.