Tripura CM Manik Saha celebrates 100 weeks of ‘Sanskriti Haat’, emphasizing unity in diversity and boosting local culture. Announces ₹50.25 lakh grant to develop the cultural hub at Old Agartala, promoting self-reliance, tradition, and socio-economic growth.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Sunday reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Tripura’s diverse cultural heritage while announcing a major infrastructure boost for the popular ‘Sanskriti Haat’ at Nandannagar in West Tripura.
Speaking at an event marking 100 weeks of uninterrupted celebrations at the ‘Sanskriti Haat’, the Chief Minister announced a grant of ₹50.25 lakh for developing the infrastructure of the cultural hub through the Old Agartala Block under the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM).
Dr. Saha praised the initiative as a living example of unity in diversity, saying, “Culture is our ornament. It connects our past, present, and future. Tripura’s rich cultural fabric — woven by 19 tribal ethnic groups, Manipuris, minorities, and Bengalis — makes us proud. This is what defines the spirit of unity in diversity in our state.”
Celebrating 100 Weeks of Cultural Harmony
The event, held at Sen Para in Nandannagar, marked the hundredth edition of the weekly ‘Sanskriti Haat’ — a cultural fair modeled after the famous Sonajhuri Haat of Santiniketan, Bolpur (West Bengal). Established on December 10, 2023, by the cultural organization Bangla Sanskriti Boloy, the ‘Haat’ has become a symbol of Tripura’s growing cultural identity.
“I was fortunate to be here during its inauguration and again today at its hundredth edition. Despite challenges, the organisers have maintained the Haat every single week without interruption. This dedication reflects the strength of our culture,” Dr. Saha said.
The Chief Minister, who also holds the Information and Cultural Affairs portfolio, lauded the consistent efforts of the organizers in sustaining the initiative. “Now people from Tripura, Bangladesh, and West Bengal know about this ‘Sanskriti Haat’. It has emerged as a popular gathering point, drawing enthusiastic participation and showcasing cultural performances, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine,” he added.
Empowering Women Through Culture and Commerce
Highlighting the economic impact of the initiative, Dr. Saha connected the ‘Sanskriti Haat’ to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Lakhpati Didis’, an empowerment scheme encouraging women to achieve financial independence through self-help groups (SHGs).
“In Tripura, over 1,00,800 women have already become ‘Lakhpati Didis’, and around 4.85 lakh women have joined SHGs. The ‘Sanskriti Haat’ is not just about entertainment; it’s also a platform for self-reliance. Around 40–50 families are earning livelihoods by making and selling handicrafts and traditional food items,” he said.
He emphasized that cultural initiatives like this not only preserve heritage but also strengthen the local economy and create sustainable opportunities for rural women and artisans. “This cultural marketplace embodies self-reliance, innovation, and inclusivity — the true essence of Tripura’s development model,” he remarked.
Government’s Commitment to Cultural Development
Dr. Saha assured that the state government would continue to support such grassroots cultural ventures to ensure that Tripura’s diverse traditions flourish. “We are providing financial assistance through TRLM to improve the infrastructure of the ‘Sanskriti Haat’ so that it can expand and attract more participants in the future,” he said.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the improved facilities would make the venue a cultural tourism hotspot, bringing together artists, musicians, and local entrepreneurs under one roof.
Tripura Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, former Assembly Speaker and MLA Ratan Chakraborty, Vice-Chairman of the State Cultural Advisory Committee Subrata Chakraborty, West Tripura District Magistrate Vishal Kumar, TRLM CEO Tarit Kanti Chakma, and Bangla Sanskriti Boloy President Sebak Bhattacharya were among the dignitaries present.
A Cultural Model of Inspiration
Dr. Saha commended the cultural group for sustaining the weekly Haat for nearly two years, calling it “a remarkable example of willpower and unity. If there is will and determination, everything is possible.”
He described the initiative as a bridge between tradition and progress — blending art, economy, and community participation in a shared space that celebrates Tripura’s collective identity.
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As the ‘Sanskriti Haat’ moves into its next phase, backed by government funding and public enthusiasm, it stands as a symbol of Tripura’s cultural pride, social resilience, and unity in diversity — reflecting a model for other states to follow.
