Bhubaneswar, Nov. 15: Schools in the city are taking part in a number of fun-filled initiatives meant for stress busting among students.

The SAI International School today took an initiative to strengthen the bond between parents and the institute. The event titled Heritage Treasure Hunt made the students solve puzzles, and in the process, learn about the cultural heritage of the city.

The teams were given some clues and made to go on a treasure hunt at 12 heritage points, where the school officials had been deputed to acknowledge their arrival. Some of the heritage points were Udaygiri, Parsurameswar temple, Satrughna temple, Chandaka elephant sanctuary, Ekamra bana, Chausathi yogani temple and some other venues.

"The game involved a lot of intelligence, fun and patience," said Debendra Jena, the father of Achyut Jena, the winner of the heritage treasure hunt. He said: "It was after a long time that I spent time with my children. We went for a drive and enjoyed the treasure hunt thoroughly."

In another development, a children's literary festival conducted at the KIIT International School concluded today. Around 600 students from over 30 schools across the state took part in the event.

A number of eminent authors such as Ruskin Bond and Upamanyu Chatterjee conducted an interactive session with the kids. Speaking at the event, Chatterjee said: "Such literary fests at the school level give the students an exposure to literature. In spite of the burden that students face during due to cut-throat competition, such sessions give them a break from their hectic schedules."

A theatre troupe performed the play titled James aur ek Giant Peach based on a novel by Roald Dahl. A photography workshop by Arghya Brata Mandal and a cartoon workshop and competition by Ajit Narayan were also held.