BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 2nd November 2025 : Unakoti district has once again been left out of major state-level cultural celebrations, sparking widespread outrage among residents and cultural advocates. The district, home to the ancient Shaivite pilgrimage site Unakoti, was notably absent from both the 2024 Tourism Promo Fest and the upcoming 2025 Unity Promo Fest—two flagship events organized by Tripura’s Department of Tourism.
The controversy erupted after a promotional poster for the 2025 fest went viral on social media, revealing a detailed itinerary that includes events in Narkel Kunja (Nov 8–9), Belonia (Nov 15–16), Udaipur (Nov 19–20), Jampui Hills (Nov 29–30), Neermahal (Dec 4–5), and a grand finale in Agartala on December 12 featuring artists from across India. Yet, Unakoti, despite its historical and religious significance was conspicuously missing for the second consecutive year.
Local intellectuals, journalists, and civil society leaders have condemned the omission, calling it more than a bureaucratic oversight. “This is not just an administrative lapse, it’s a cultural insult,” said Bhaskar Ghosh Adhikari, a senior member of the Kailashahar Unnayan Mancha.
“The name Unakoti itself carries the weight of history, heritage, and spiritual importance. It is globally recognized as an ancient Shaivite site and has even drawn the attention of UNESCO. Yet, our own tourism department seems blind to its value,” he added.
Adhikari emphasized that the exclusion of Unakoti from successive promotional events reflects a deeper pattern of neglect. “This is not a coincidence. It’s a clear sign of administrative disregard and cultural marginalization. Unakoti houses some of the oldest Shaivite rock carvings in India, attracting visitors from around the world. Ignoring it is tantamount to ignoring Tripura’s soul,” Adhikari said.
He further urged the state government to adopt a more sensitive and inclusive approach. “UNESCO recognition is not the end of responsibility it’s the beginning. Unakoti is not just a tourist spot; it’s a symbol of our identity, faith, and pride. Its omission diminishes the dignity of the entire district.”
The call for justice has resonated widely among locals, who have rallied behind the demand to restore Unakoti’s rightful place in Tripura’s cultural and tourism landscape. “We don’t want Unakoti to be sidelined ever again. It is our pride, and neglecting it is an affront to our heritage,” he also added.
Community voices now echo a unified appeal: let Unakoti be celebrated not just in UNESCO documents, but at the heart of every cultural and tourism initiative undertaken by the state.
