Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday emphasized the significance of the Chaturdash Devta Temple as a major religious tourism center in Tripura, stating that the government is committed to preserving its heritage while promoting development.
Addressing the inauguration of the seven-day Kharchi Puja and fair at the temple premises in Khayerpur, Saha said, “The traditional Kharchi Puja has now become a gathering place for people from all sections of society, cutting across caste and tribal communities.”
He added, “Today, I pay my deepest respects to the Chaturdash Devta and wish happiness, peace, good health, prosperity and the all-round welfare of the people of Tripura. The main purpose of Kharchi Puja is to purify Mother Earth and attain virtue. Kharchi Puja is not just a religious festival; it is a shining symbol of Tripura’s history, culture, spiritual consciousness, harmony and unity among the state’s tribal and non-tribal communities. It is one of the oldest traditional and universal religious festivals of Tripura. We know that this puja began with the worship of the fourteen deities, the family deities of the royal family, but today it has become a universal festival of the people of Tripura.
Saha noted that Kharchi Puja is held annually on the Shukla Ashtami of the month of Ashadh, featuring various religious rituals, fairs and cultural activities.
He recalled, “Long ago, there was no bridge over the Howrah River, so people had to travel by boat. Many accidents also occurred during those journeys. Yet, people from all over the state participated in this puja regardless of caste, religion or creed. During this seven-day-long puja and fair, people from different states and even other countries gather here, making it a vibrant meeting place. It is mentioned in the Rajmala that the fourteen deities are the family deities of The Kharchi Puja is performed by the chief priest, or Chantai, while following all the prescribed rituals. These fourteen deities are worshiped throughout the year. Shukla Ashtami.”
The Chief Minister also highlighted the state’s unity in diversity, stating, “We are proud of this. Every year, this festival strengthens the sense of brotherhood among people of different languages, cultures and communities. It promotes cultural exchange and strengthens social bonds. This year’s Kharchi Festival 2026 begins today and will continue for seven days until July 28. The theme of this year’s Kharchi Mela is ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’. I thank the fair committee for Taking the initiative to spread the message of environmental protection among the people, about 22 cultural programs will also be organized, with renowned and talented artists presenting their performances.
Speaking on tourism, Saha remarked, “Chaturdash Devta Bari is today one of the most important religious tourism centers in Tripura. The Tourism Department has taken initiatives to provide modern facilities to tourists and pilgrims while preserving the heritage of the temple. Steps have also been taken to enhance the attraction of this temple for visitors. Thousands of tourists now visit this place every year. The government is committed to taking development forward while preserving its heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also given special importance to the preservation and development of heritage.”
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