The two-day celebration of the 116th birth anniversary of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur commenced today at Khumulung, marking a significant event in Tripura’s cultural calendar. The celebration is a collaborative effort by the Intake Tripura Chapter and the Tripura Tribal Area Autonomous Zilla Parishad, with a focus on honoring the Maharaja’s enduring legacy.
The event featured a discussion circle and a picture exhibition, both highlighting the life and contributions of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha graced the occasion as the chief guest, addressing the gathering at the Nudai Auditorium in Khumulung.
In his speech, Chief Minister Saha emphasized the previous government’s neglect of the royal family’s philanthropic activities, which had long been kept out of public view. He praised the current administration for taking steps to honor the Maharaja’s contributions, such as renaming the Tripura airport after him when the government came to power in 2018. Furthermore, the Chief Minister highlighted the renaming of Zero Island at Kaman Chaumuhani to Maharaja Bir Bikram Chaumuhani, where a statue of the Maharaja has been erected. A full-length statue of the Maharaja has also been installed at the Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala, reflecting the current government’s respect for Tripura’s royal heritage.
Chief Minister Saha underscored the importance of trust, urging citizens from all backgrounds to unite for Tripura’s development. He emphasized that politics should not hinder the state’s progress and called for collective efforts to continue the development legacy initiated by Maharaja Bir Bikram, the architect of modern Tripura. He lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that numerous decisions have been made to promote the state’s diverse population. The Chief Minister also mentioned the significant improvements in Tripura’s communication system under the diamond model, contributing to the state’s advancement.
During the event, MP Kriti Devi Devavarman spoke passionately about the royal family’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of Tripura’s people. MDC Pradyut Kishore Manikya Devavarman expressed gratitude to the state government for naming the airport after the Maharaja, acknowledging his pivotal role in securing legal land rights, establishing the airport, and expanding education in the state. He credited the Maharaja’s modern thinking as a driving force behind Tripura’s current progress.
The event also saw speeches from ADC Chief Executive Member Purnachanda Jamatia, Tripura Central University Vice-Chancellor Gangaprasad Prasain, and Maharaj Kumari Pragya Devavarman, all of whom reflected on the Maharaja’s life and philosophy. Following the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister and other dignitaries inaugurated a traditional food stall and a picture exhibition showcasing the Maharaja’s life and career, adding a vibrant cultural touch to the celebration.
