Senior editors in Tripura have urged the government to install busts of the state’s freedom fighters at key locations in Agartala. The appeal followed a unique procession showcasing 45 statues, highlighting Tripura’s role in India’s independence and aiming to inspire youth while boosting cultural tourism.
A group of senior editors in Tripura has called for the immediate installation of busts of the state’s freedom fighters at prominent locations in the capital city to preserve history, inspire the youth, and enhance cultural tourism.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, senior editors Subal Dey, Samiran Roy, and Manas Pal urged Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha to take swift action in ensuring that the busts of Tripura’s freedom fighters are prominently displayed in public spaces. They suggested ideal locations such as the entrance of the State Secretariat, Heritage Park, Nehru Park, and areas near the iconic Ujjayanta Palace.
“These statues will not only honor our heroes but also serve as a constant reminder to future generations of the sacrifices made for the nation’s independence,” the editors said, adding that tourists visiting Tripura would gain a deeper understanding of the state’s contribution to India’s freedom movement.
The appeal was made during a unique and visually striking procession held in the heart of Agartala on Wednesday. The event showcased statues of 45 freedom fighters — 37 from Tripura and 8 from other Northeastern states — giving citizens a rare opportunity to witness the faces and figures of the region’s unsung heroes.
A Procession of Pride
The march, organized by the State Centre of Lalit Kala Akademi, began at Nazrul Kalakshetra and wound through key streets of the capital before returning to its starting point. The event featured three elaborately decorated tableaus, a cavalcade of motorbikes, and an enthusiastic public turnout.
Flagged off by the senior editors themselves, the procession drew widespread attention. Also present were Suman Majumder, the state coordinator of Lalit Kala Akademi, along with several artists whose creative labor brought the statues to life.
Two Years of Dedicated Craftsmanship
The sculptures were created as part of a 2023 workshop jointly organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi (Ministry of Culture, Government of India), the Northeast Regional Centre, and the Naimung Kotal Society. This initiative marked a first-of-its-kind effort in the country to honor freedom fighters from the Northeast who played vital roles in India’s independence movement.
Artists participating in the project were given full creative freedom. Over nearly two years, they painstakingly worked to ensure each statue authentically represented its subject, from facial expressions to historical attire.
Honoring Tripura’s Own Heroes
Among the 37 Tripura figures immortalized in the sculptures are two former chief ministers, as well as notable freedom fighters such as Hariganga Basak, Rai Kachak Rai Kosom, Prabhat Debbarma, Debprasad Sengupta, and Biren Dutta. These individuals were instrumental in mobilizing the masses, resisting colonial oppression, and shaping Tripura’s political identity during the independence struggle.
The remaining eight statues depict freedom fighters from other Northeastern states, underscoring the region’s collective contribution to the national cause.
A Cultural and Historical Imperative
According to the editors, placing these statues in public areas would not only beautify the city but also integrate history into the daily lives of citizens. “Heritage should not be confined to books or museums. It should be part of the living, breathing environment around us,” one of them said.
They expressed confidence that the state government, especially the tourism department, would take proactive measures to make these statues a permanent part of Agartala’s public landscape.
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The event and the editors’ appeal come at a time when cultural tourism is being increasingly recognized as a driver of local economies. By honoring freedom fighters through such installations, Tripura could strengthen both its historical identity and its appeal as a travel destination.
If implemented, this proposal would ensure that the sacrifices and stories of Tripura’s freedom fighters remain etched not only in the annals of history but also in the hearts of its people.
