PM Modi highlighted Tripura’s traditional Chongpreng instrument in Mann Ki Baat, praising Suraj Kumar Debbarma’s efforts to preserve tribal musical heritage. Chief Minister Manik Saha expressed gratitude, calling the national recognition a proud moment for Tripura’s rich cultural legacy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted Tripura’s traditional tribal musical instrument, the Chongpreng, during the 136th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, appreciating the efforts of Suraj Kumar Debbarma, popularly known as Sadagar Debbarma, for preserving and promoting the state’s rich indigenous musical heritage. Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha welcomed the recognition and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister for showcasing Tripura’s cultural identity before the entire nation.
During the programme, Prime Minister Modi described the Chongpreng as a unique musical instrument crafted from bamboo that produces a sweet and melodious sound. He observed that despite its cultural significance, the instrument had gradually lost popularity among younger generations. He noted that Suraj Kumar Debbarma had taken remarkable initiatives to revive the traditional instrument and reconnect the youth with their cultural roots.
Praising Debbarma’s contribution, the Prime Minister said he was proud of his efforts to popularise traditional music and preserve an important aspect of India’s tribal heritage. He also appealed to people across the country to share information about traditional musical instruments from their respective regions through social media so that more people could learn about India’s diverse cultural traditions.
The Prime Minister said that Debbarma’s dedication was not only helping preserve the Chongpreng but was also inspiring young people to appreciate and embrace traditional music once again.
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, who participated in a live listening programme of the 136th episode of Mann Ki Baat at Booth No. 51 under 13 Pratapgarh Mandal, said it was a matter of immense pride that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had once again mentioned Tripura in his nationally broadcast address.
He said that the Prime Minister highlighted inspiring initiatives from different parts of the country, India’s achievements in sports and Olympiads, and the remarkable contributions of ordinary citizens towards preserving traditional crafts and cultural heritage. Among those initiatives, the special mention of Tripura’s Chongpreng and Suraj Kumar Debbarma stood out as a proud moment for the people of the state.
Dr. Saha recalled that only a few days earlier he had personally met Suraj Kumar Debbarma, appreciated his efforts and honoured him with a garland after seeing the traditional musical instrument. He said he had never imagined that the Prime Minister would soon recognise Debbarma’s work on such a prestigious national platform.
The Chief Minister said the recognition was not limited to one individual but belonged to every citizen of Tripura.
“Today, Suraj Kumar Debbarma received recognition from the Prime Minister. It feels as though he alone has not received this honour; people from all sections, castes, tribes and communities of Tripura have been honoured,” Dr. Saha said.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the people of Tripura, the Chief Minister thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing the state’s glorious cultural heritage into the national spotlight. He said the recognition would encourage artists, musicians and cultural practitioners across the state to continue preserving their traditions for future generations.
Dr. Saha also spoke about the growing popularity of Mann Ki Baat, saying people eagerly wait for the last Sunday of every month to listen to the programme. According to him, the broadcast has become a platform through which the Prime Minister connects directly with citizens by highlighting inspiring stories, social initiatives and national achievements rather than political issues.
The Chief Minister further stated that Prime Minister Modi has immense faith in the country’s youth and consistently encourages them to contribute to nation-building. He said the Prime Minister’s initiatives, including Mann Ki Baat and Pariksha Pe Charcha, have established a unique connection with people across India.
Referring to Sunday’s episode, Dr. Saha noted that the Prime Minister also emphasised the importance of eliminating single-use plastic to protect the environment. He said the Tripura Government is already taking strict measures against plastic pollution and is simultaneously giving special attention to the development of the state’s tea industry.
| Also Read: PM Modi praises youth joining Viksit Vibrant Village programme |
The recognition of the Chongpreng in Mann Ki Baat has been widely welcomed in Tripura, with many viewing it as a significant boost to the preservation of the state’s tribal cultural heritage. The acknowledgement by the Prime Minister is expected to inspire greater awareness of the traditional bamboo instrument and encourage younger generations to embrace and preserve Tripura’s rich musical traditions.
