Tripura’s century-old traditional Kharchi Puja commenced at Chaturdash Devata Temple, Khayerpur on Sunday. Tripura has a glorious history of art and culture. This traditional art and culture of the state is in no way less than the culture of any other state in the country. Our society and culture will be more prosperous only if we can carry this tradition forward by the hands of the next generation, said Chief Minister Prof. (Dr) Manik Saha after inaugurating the 7-day long traditional Kharchi Puja Festival at Chaturdash Devata Temple, Khayerpur on Sunday.

Minister for Tourism Sushanta Chowdhury, chairman of organizing committee and MLA Ratan Chakraborty, MLA Rampada Jamatia, MLA Dipak Majumder and other dignitaries were present.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr Saha said that the culture of India is ancient and rich and hence to bring prosperity to the nation, it is required to handover the traditional art and culture of the country’s heritage to the younger and the next generation.

The Chief Minister said that the last day of the festival on July 20 is declared as a public holiday as this year’s Kharchi festival and exhibition started on a Sunday holiday. This initiative is for the pilgrims to enjoy the Kharchi Mela in a good manner, he said.

The chief minister said on the occasion that the main theme of this year’s Kharchi festival and exhibition is ‘green is the future’ which is very significant and relevant. Dr Saha mentioned about the planting of 5 lakhs trees in five minutes in Tripura and said that the tradition of being with nature and worshiping nature has come from the King’s rule in Tripura.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the people of Tripura on the occasion. The Prime Minister wrote on X, “Wishing everyone, particularly the people of Tripura, on the occasion of Kharchi Puja! May the divine blessings of Chaturdash Devata always remain upon us, bringing joy and good health to all. May it also enrich everyone’s lives with prosperity and harmony.”

Home Minister Amit Shah also extended greetings. He wrote on X, “My heartfelt best wishes to our sisters and brothers in Tripura on the occasion of Kharchi Puja. May this festival of bonding with Mother Earth bring prosperity, happiness, and good health to everyone.”