PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP leaders paid homage to Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the last king of Tripura, on his 117th birth anniversary. Remembered as the “Architect of Modern Tripura,” his visionary reforms in education, governance, and infrastructure continue to inspire the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Health and Family Welfare Minister and BJP President J.P. Nadda, along with several other prominent leaders, on Tuesday paid rich tributes to Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the last king of the princely state of Tripura, on his 117th birth anniversary.
Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, who ruled Tripura from 1923 until his untimely demise in 1947, is widely hailed as the “Architect of Modern Tripura.” The Tripura government organized a series of commemorative events to mark the occasion, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping the state’s destiny and modern development trajectory.
PM Modi’s Tribute
Prime Minister Modi, in a post on social media platform X, expressed deep admiration for the Maharaja’s enduring contributions. He wrote:
“Remembering Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur Ji on his birth anniversary. He is admired for his exemplary efforts in developing Tripura. His passion for public service, commitment to empowering the poor, and dedication to social uplift continue to inspire us greatly. The Central Government and the Government of Tripura are working tirelessly to realise his vision.”
The Prime Minister emphasized how the developmental spirit and reformist zeal of the Maharaja resonate even today in policies and welfare programs being implemented in Tripura and across the nation.
Homage by Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in his message, described Maharaja Bir Bikram as a visionary monarch who laid the foundation of modern governance in Tripura. Taking to his official X handle, Shah wrote:
“Homage to Tripura Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur Ji on his Jayanti. He is remembered as the ‘Architect of Modern Tripura,’ whose farsighted reforms in education, infrastructure, and governance laid the foundation for the state’s progress. His legacy continues to inspire generations.”
Shah’s remarks highlighted the Maharaja’s contribution to establishing modern educational institutions, building administrative structures, and initiating progressive reforms that transformed Tripura’s society.
Tribute by J.P. Nadda
Union Health Minister and BJP National President J.P. Nadda also bowed in respect to the late Maharaja. In his tribute, he said:
“I bow in tribute to Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Bahadur, the ‘Architect of Modern Tripura,’ on his birth anniversary. His time as ruler was a defining chapter in Tripura’s journey, shaping its growth and setting strong foundations for future development. His legacy continues to guide us in working with deep commitment for the progress and welfare of the people of Tripura.”
Tripura Government’s Recognition
The BJP-led government in Tripura, soon after assuming power in 2018, officially recognized the birth anniversary of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur as a state holiday starting from 2019. This decision was seen as a mark of respect for the legendary ruler and acknowledgment of his historic role in modernizing the state.
This year, multiple cultural, educational, and commemorative programs were held across the state, including at the Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala, to honor his memory.
A Visionary Monarch
Born on August 19, 1908, Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur is remembered as one of the most dynamic rulers of the Manikya dynasty. Historians widely acknowledge him as the most successful monarch in the dynasty’s 517-year rule, which saw hundreds of kings before Tripura’s eventual merger with India.
His reign is particularly noted for his emphasis on modern education, introduction of progressive social reforms, urban planning in Agartala, and infrastructural development. He envisioned Tripura as a modern state with accessible education and better living standards for all its people.
Unfortunately, his rule was cut short by his untimely death in 1947 at the age of 39. Two years later, on October 15, 1949, the princely state of Tripura was officially merged with the Indian Union after a merger agreement was signed between Maharani Kanchan Prabha Devi, who acted as regent, and the then Indian Governor General.
Legacy That Lives On
The legacy of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur continues to influence Tripura’s progress. His vision for education, infrastructure, and governance still resonates strongly in the state’s developmental journey. For the people of Tripura, his memory remains a source of pride and inspiration.
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As Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and other leaders recalled, the Maharaja’s commitment to public welfare and social uplift is timeless—making him not just the last monarch of Tripura, but also a modern architect whose dream still guides the state’s future.
