The exclusion of Pilak Tourist Centre from Tripura’s Unity Promofest map has sparked public outrage in Jolaibari. Locals demand its inclusion, highlighting Pilak’s archaeological significance and urging the Tourism Department to promote the site through major cultural events.
The exclusion of the historically significant Pilak Tourist Centre from the promotional map of the recently organised Unity Promofest in Tripura has triggered widespread dissatisfaction among residents of Jolaibari. Locals and tourism stakeholders have raised strong concerns, asserting that the omission undermines the cultural and archaeological value of one of the state’s oldest heritage sites.
Unity Promofest, a major tourism-focused cultural festival, showcased several prime destinations across Tripura through documentary features, promotional exhibits, and cultural displays. However, Pilak—widely regarded as an archaeological treasure representing the fusion of Buddhist, Hindu, and tribal artistic traditions—was conspicuously missing from all visual materials and maps circulated during the event. Many residents took to social platforms and community meetings to highlight the issue, questioning the criteria behind the selection of sites represented in the festival.
A Site of Deep Historical Importance
Situated in the Jolaibari subdivision of South Tripura district, Pilak is home to centuries-old stone carvings, terracotta plaques, and sculptures dating back to the 8th and 12th centuries. Numerous ancient idols have been unearthed from the area over the years, reflecting a rich cultural past influenced by both the Pala and Gupta dynasties. A dedicated museum now preserves many of these artefacts, attracting researchers, historians, and tourists throughout the year.
Local heritage activists argue that Pilak stands as a symbol of Tripura’s archaeological legacy and should have been given priority in any state-backed cultural showcase. “Pilak is not just another tourist spot—it is a living testimony to the region’s civilizational roots. Leaving it out of the Unity Promofest map is unacceptable,” said a local cultural worker, expressing frustration shared across the community.
Tourism Footfall and Regional Development at Stake
According to local residents, Pilak receives visitors from across India, particularly history enthusiasts and cultural tourists exploring Tripura’s Buddhist trails and archaeological attractions. Stakeholders believe that appropriate representation of Pilak in large-scale promotional events could significantly boost tourism revenue and create more livelihood opportunities in the region.
They stress that the omission could have a direct impact on local businesses, guides, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs who depend on tourism-linked income. Many locals argued that even smaller tourist destinations were highlighted in the promotional documentary, while Pilak—despite its historical importance—was left out without explanation.
Locals Demand Government Attention and Inclusion
Residents of Jolaibari have appealed to Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury to take immediate steps to correct what they describe as a “serious oversight.” They demanded that Pilak be added to all official promotional materials associated with Unity Promofest and future tourism campaigns.
Locals have also urged the minister to organise a major cultural event in Pilak featuring a renowned Indian artist, emphasising that such an initiative would immediately bring national attention to the site. According to them, an event of that scale would not only showcase Pilak’s archaeological heritage but also encourage more tourists to explore the region.
Community leaders further stressed that proper signage, publicity, and infrastructural improvements should be undertaken to enhance tourist experience. They argued that the state government must adopt a more inclusive approach to tourism promotion so that historically significant regions like Pilak are not overshadowed by more frequently publicised destinations.
Broader Questions Over Tourism Promotion Strategy
The controversy has sparked a wider debate about how Tripura selects and prioritises sites for tourism promotion. Analysts point out that such oversights could hinder the state’s long-term goal of becoming a competitive tourism destination in Northeast India.
Experts in heritage conservation believe that Pilak holds immense potential to be developed as a major archaeological tourism hub. They argue that promoting lesser-known but culturally rich destinations like Pilak aligns with India’s expanding heritage-tourism narrative, which aims to highlight diversity beyond mainstream attractions.
A Call for Fair Representation
As the debate continues, locals remain hopeful that the Tourism Department will address their concerns and take corrective measures. They emphasise that Pilak’s inclusion in major promotional platforms is not merely about recognition but about safeguarding the cultural identity of Jolaibari and ensuring balanced tourism development across Tripura.
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For now, the residents await an official response, believing that fair representation of Pilak will strengthen Tripura’s tourism profile and provide the region with the recognition it rightfully deserves.
