Tripura

CM Dr. Manik Saha inaugurates weeklong Kharchi Puja festival in Tripura


Chief Minister of Tripura, Dr. Manik Saha, inaugurated the weeklong Kharchi Puja festival on Thursday at the revered Chaturdash Devta Temple in Khayerpur, Old Agartala. The festival, one of Tripura’s most prominent religious and cultural celebrations, began with traditional rituals and the presence of thousands of devotees from across the state and beyond.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Saha emphasized the need to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Tripura by educating the younger generation about the significance of Kharchi Puja and its associated traditions.
“India’s culture and traditions are among the oldest in the world. It is essential that the new generation is made aware of the historical background of Kharchi Puja and the Chaturdasha Devata. Without this awareness, the essence of such traditions may gradually fade away,” the Chief Minister said.
Kharchi Puja, which celebrates the worship of fourteen deities known as the Chaturdasha Devata, holds deep spiritual significance for both tribal and non-tribal communities in the state. The deities are believed to be the ancestral gods of Tripura's royal family. As per legend, Maharani Hirabati once saved the deities from a frenzied bull by shielding them with her sacred risa—a traditional woven cloth. In gratitude, the gods blessed her lineage, leading to the birth of Maharaja Trilochan, a revered figure in Tripura’s royal history.
The weeklong festival is marked by elaborate rituals, religious ceremonies, cultural performances, community feasts, and fairs. The celebrations are conducted in the traditional Sanatan Hindu style and symbolize unity and devotion among diverse communities in Tripura.
Thousands of devotees gathered at the temple premises on the opening day to seek blessings for peace, prosperity, and harmony.
Prominent dignitaries including Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, MLA Ratan Chakraborty, and other officials were also present at the inaugural ceremony.
The Kharchi Puja will continue for seven days, drawing spiritual seekers, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from across the region.

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