Unity in diversity Tripura's key strength: CM inaugurates Kharchi mela

Tripura's traditional Kharchi Puja commenced at Chaturdash Devata Temple in khayerpur of West Tripura district on Wednesday. 

Devotion, cultural pride, and unity among the people marked the beginning of the state's one of the main festivals. 

Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Wednesday inaugurated the seven-day Kharchi Mela at the historic Chaturdasha Devata Temple in Khayerpur. 

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted the spiritual and cultural significance of the festival, describing Kharchi Puja as an occasion dedicated to the worship of Mother Earth, purification, and the pursuit of virtue. 

He said the Chaturdasha Devata Temple was shifted from Udaipur to Old Agartala in 1760 during the reign of Maharaja Krishna Manikya. While the temple was originally the royal family's ancestral shrine, it has now evolved into a festival celebrated by people from all communities across Tripura. 

Dr. Saha noted that the rituals are led by the chief priest, known as the Chantai, during which the fourteen deities—Hara, Uma, Hari, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik, Ganesha, Brahma, Prithvi (Earth), Samudra (Sea), Ganga, Agni (Fire), Kamadeva, and Himadri—are worshipped. 

The Chief Minister said this year's Kharchi Fair is being organised around the theme "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" promoting environmental conservation and afforestation. As part of the initiative, a large number of saplings will be distributed among visitors to encourage tree plantation. 

Highlighting the government's efforts to promote religious tourism, Dr. Saha said the state is developing the Chaturdasha Devata Temple into a modern pilgrimage destination. Infrastructure projects, including a Nat Mandir, Haveli Park and an open-air stage, are being developed to enhance facilities for devotees and tourists. 

He said the state government is working in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of preserving and promoting India's rich cultural and religious heritage. Similar emphasis has also been placed on the modernisation and development of the Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur and other important religious sites across the state. 

Describing Kharchi Puja as much more than a religious celebration, Dr. Saha said the centuries-old festival reflects Tripura's rich history, cultural heritage, spiritual values, communal harmony and the unity of its diverse tribal and non-tribal communities. 

"This vibrant festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange and strengthens social bonds among people," he said. 

Emphasising that "unity in diversity is one of Tripura's greatest strengths," the Chief Minister said the harmonious coexistence of the state's various indigenous communities and cultures is a source of pride and resilience. 

He wished peace, happiness and prosperity for all and expressed hope for the grand success of the seven-day Kharchi Festival, which will continue until July 28. 

Mayor Dipak Majumder, local MLA and chairman of mela organizing committee Ratan Chakraborty, Secretary Kiran Gitte, West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar and other representatives and officials were present.