Did Tripura CM Manik Saha Inaugurate a 3-Day Diwali Festival at the 524-Year-Old Sundari Temple?
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Synopsis
Tripura's CM Manik Saha kicks off a vibrant three-day Diwali festival at the historic Mata Tripura Sundari temple, bringing together devotees and showcasing rich cultural heritage. With enhanced security and special train services, the event promises to be a memorable celebration despite recent challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Three-day Diwali festival inaugurated by CM Manik Saha.
- Mata Tripura Sundari temple is a revered Shakti Peetha.
- Enhanced security measures for attendee safety.
- Special train services to manage increased travel.
- Recent redevelopment of the temple under PRASHAD scheme.
Agartala, Oct 20 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, officially launched the three-day Diwali festival and mela at the Mata Tripura Sundari temple, a significant site among the 51 Shakti Peethas esteemed by Hindus, located in Udaipur, Gomati district, southern Tripura.
Prior to the festival's formal inauguration, the Chief Minister, along with his wife, Swapna Saha, and various Cabinet members, engaged in puja at this renowned temple.
Transport and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury announced that the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) would operate two special trains—Agartala–Dharmanagar–Agartala and Agartala–Sabroom–Agartala—for the duration of the festival from October 20 to 22 to accommodate the influx of passengers. Each year, thousands of devotees from across the nation partake in this vibrant celebration.
In previous years, numerous attendees from Bangladesh joined the festivities; however, due to last year’s political unrest in the neighboring nation, participation has significantly declined. Superintendent of Police (SP) Kiran Kumar K indicated that extensive security measures are in place to ensure safety during the three-day event.
As part of the security protocols, over 3,000 security personnel, including members of the Tripura State Rifles (TSR), have been deployed. Additionally, 37 CCTV cameras and 10 watchtowers have been established around the temple complex for continuous monitoring, according to the IPS officer.
Forces from the district police and the CRPF will also be present, along with hundreds of volunteers to help manage the anticipated large crowds. Regular vehicle inspections and enhanced patrolling are being conducted to deter any potential disturbances.
Moreover, fulfilling a long-standing public request, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari temple on September 22 and offered prayers at the Kali temple.
A senior official from the Tourism Department noted that under the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) initiative by the Union Tourism Ministry, the 524-year-old temple has been revamped at an investment exceeding Rs 54 crore.
The central government allocated Rs 34.43 crore, while the Tripura government contributed Rs 17.61 crore towards this project. Built in 1501 by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya, the temple stands as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, being the third such shrine in eastern India after the Kali temple in Kolkata and the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati.
Following 517 years of monarchy, on October 15, 1949, the former princely state of Tripura merged with the Indian Union through an agreement between Kanchan Prabha Devi, the then regent Maharani, and the Governor-General of India.
Point of View
The successful launch of the Diwali festival at Mata Tripura Sundari temple underscores the cultural significance of the event and the government's commitment to ensuring safety and accessibility for all participants. The event serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the region.
NationPress
20/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Mata Tripura Sundari temple?
Mata Tripura Sundari temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, revered by Hindus as a significant pilgrimage site, symbolizing divine feminine energy.
What security measures are in place for the festival?
Over 3,000 security personnel, including TSR members, have been deployed, alongside CCTV cameras and watchtowers to ensure the safety of attendees.
How has the participation from Bangladesh been affected?
Participation from Bangladesh has seen a decline due to last year's political turmoil, impacting the number of attendees at the festival.
What improvements have been made to the temple?
The temple underwent redevelopment under the PRASHAD scheme, with a cost exceeding Rs 54 crore, enhancing its facilities and infrastructure.
What special arrangements are made for transportation?
The Northeast Frontier Railway is operating special trains to accommodate the increased passenger flow during the festival.
