Traditional Makar Sankranti Mela begins at Tirthamukh in Tripura as CM Dr. Manik Saha inaugurates the two-day fair, highlighting unity, cultural heritage, inclusive development, and growing pilgrimage significance in Gomati district.
The two-day traditional Makar Sankranti Mela commenced with religious fervour and cultural vibrancy at Tirthamukh in Karbook subdivision of Gomati district on Monday evening, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors from across Tripura and neighbouring states. The annual fair, deeply rooted in tradition and history, once again emerged as a symbol of unity, harmony, and collective faith.
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha formally inaugurated the mela in the presence of a massive gathering of devotees and dignitaries. Addressing the crowd, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of unity among all communities and described the Tirthamukh Makar Sankranti fair as a matter of pride for the people of Tripura.
Dr. Saha highlighted the historical and spiritual significance of Tirthamukh, stating that the fair has been observed for generations and continues to preserve the cultural ethos of the region. Every year, pilgrims eagerly await this auspicious occasion to perform sacred rituals, including tarpan in memory of their ancestors, holy baths at the confluence, and immersion of ashes, in accordance with age-old traditions.
The Chief Minister noted that Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India under different names, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity and shared spiritual values. He added that Tirthamukh holds an ancient association with the festival, making it a significant pilgrimage destination during this period. Devotees from neighbouring states also visit the site to take holy dips and participate in religious ceremonies, adding to the fair’s regional importance.
Emphasising inclusive development, Dr. Saha said that the state government is continuously working to preserve the culture, customs, and traditions of all communities residing in Tripura. He underlined that collective participation and cooperation are essential for the state’s overall progress. “Such events symbolise unity and harmony and strengthen social bonds among people,” the Chief Minister said.
Referring to national initiatives, Dr. Saha stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed special emphasis on the development of religious and heritage sites across the country. Infrastructure upgradation at such locations aims to protect India’s cultural heritage while improving facilities for pilgrims. As part of this broader vision, the Mata Tripurasundari Temple has been renovated, resulting in a consistent rise in the number of devotees and tourists.
Highlighting development in the Northeast since 2014, the Chief Minister pointed out that special attention has been given to tribal welfare, connectivity, and socio-economic upliftment in Tripura. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring balanced growth while respecting cultural identity.
Cooperation Minister Shuklacharan Noatia, addressing the gathering, described the Poush Sankranti Mela at Tirthamukh as a vital platform for fostering unity between communities and tribal groups. He stressed that such traditional gatherings help promote mutual respect and cultural exchange.
MLA Sanjaymanik Tripura called for collective efforts from all stakeholders to further enhance the attractiveness and facilities of the fair in the coming years, ensuring a better experience for pilgrims and visitors.
| Also Read: Makar Sankranti showcases enduring rural culture and unity |
Gomati District Magistrate Rinku Lather delivered the welcome address, while Karbook BAC Vice-Chairman Pranab Tripura presided over the programme. Several prominent officials and public representatives attended the event, including MLA Ranjit Das, MDC Kongjong Mog, Tribal Welfare Secretary K. Shashi Kumar, Gomati Superintendent of Police Kiran Kumar K, and Karbook Sub-Divisional Magistrate Shyamjoy Tripura.
In a message shared on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Saha expressed his delight at inaugurating the traditional mela and extended heartfelt greetings to the people. He described the fair as a vibrant showcase of Tripura’s rich cultural heritage and wished everyone a blissful and auspicious Makar Sankranti.
