Agartala, Oct 16: A centuries-old royal tradition came alive at Agartala’s Durgabari temple on Friday as the invocation of Goddess Durga marked the beginning of a unique state-sponsored Puja, whose rituals have continued since the era of Tripura’s Manikya kings.
Located near the erstwhile royal residence, Ujjayanta Palace, the Durgabari Puja is distinguished by its royal heritage, customary worship and continued government support following Tripura’s merger with the Indian Union in 1949.
West Tripura District Magistrate and Collector Dr Vishal Kumar said the state administration was making arrangements to ensure that the festival was conducted in accordance with the traditions and provisions inherited from the erstwhile kingdom.
“The Puja has been celebrated since the time of the Maharajas. As per the agreement with the erstwhile kingdom, this tradition has continued, and the state makes all necessary arrangements to ensure that the rituals are performed,” Kumar told reporters.
He said the arrangements, including decoration, were being made to provide devotees with a memorable experience, while the expenditure varied from year to year.
The Durgabari celebrations retain distinctive rituals, including animal sacrifice on Dashami, in accordance with the established protocol. Kumar said the customs, rooted in the former royal administration, gave the Puja a distinctive character and attracted devotees interested in its religious and historical significance.
The tradition is associated with the Manikya dynasty, which ruled Tripura before its merger with India.
The festival also retains a ceremonial link with the former royal family, while the district administration oversees its arrangements.
Kumar said security had been strengthened across the district for the festivities, with more than 3,000 security personnel and over 200 traffic police personnel deployed. Central Reserve Police Force and other central armed police personnel, intelligence teams and expanded CCTV surveillance were also part of the arrangements.
The administration was coordinating with Puja committees and local establishments to ensure security and facilitate visitors, he said.
The Durgabari Puja remains a major attraction among Tripura’s all community and family celebrations, offering devotees a glimpse of royal customs that have survived successive political and administrative changes.
