Agartala, 23rd October 2026 : Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Friday expressed optimism that the ‘Maayer Gomon’ Carnival would help bring the state’s cultural heritage, artistic traditions and tourism prospects to international attention, as foreign dignitaries attended the annual event for the first time.
Addressing the fifth edition of the carnival, organised by the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department in association with the Agartala Municipal Corporation and other departments near Maharani Tulsibati Girls’ Higher Secondary School, Saha said the programme had gradually developed into an important fixture on Tripura’s cultural calendar.
He said the carnival had received enthusiastic public participation over the past five years, with its popularity extending beyond the state. The presence of international delegates this year, he added, had further enhanced the event’s significance.
The visiting dignitaries included Brad Runger, Senior Advisor to the U.S. Ambassador to India; Maxim Kozlov, Consul General of the Russian Federation in Kolkata; and Hasan Ya-e-Basur Abul Khulli, Assistant High Commissioner of Bangladesh in Agartala.
Saha said the guests had expressed admiration for Tripura’s natural beauty and encouraged them to revisit the state and promote it among others. He hoped their participation would contribute to tourism development and encourage interest in investment opportunities.
Referring to the recently held ‘Destination Tripura’ Business Conclave, the Chief Minister said foreign delegates had shown interest in the state’s industrial, commercial and tourism sectors. He expressed confidence that cultural initiatives such as Maayer Gomon would complement the government’s efforts to project Tripura as an attractive destination for visitors and investors.
Highlighting the emotional and social significance of Durga Puja, Saha said the festival transcends religious boundaries and promotes unity, goodwill and harmony. He noted that the carnival, introduced in 2022, was conceived to present the immersion procession in a more organised and aesthetically appealing manner while reviving the historical tradition of grand processions dating back to the royal era.
The Chief Minister also credited the peaceful atmosphere and improved economic conditions for the growing number of Durga Puja celebrations across the state. He acknowledged the contributions of puja organisers, social organisations, police personnel and officials from various departments in ensuring the smooth conduct of the festivities.
The immersion procession moved towards Dashamighat through Jackson Gate, Post Office Chowmuhani, Paradise Chowmuhani and Bartala. The programme was also broadcast live for audiences beyond Tripura.
Tripura ministers Sushanta Chowdhury, Tinku Roy and Shuklacharan Noatia, Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder, Chief Secretary J. K. Sinha, DGP G. S. Rao and senior ICA officials attended the programme.
Saha called for collective efforts to build a “New Tripura” and a “Greater Tripura” as part of the vision of a developed India by 2047, stressing the importance of unity among all communities, including the indigenous population.
