Agartala, August 5: Tripura’s Chief Minister Manik Saha stated that the age-old tradition of ‘Ker Puja’ symbolizes faith, unity, and harmony between tribal and non-tribal communities. He emphasized that this festival reflects Tripura’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
The Chief Minister, along with BJP state president Abhishek Debroy and West Tripura District Magistrate Vishal Kumar, observed the ‘Ker Puja’ at the historic Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala. According to ancient traditions associated with the festival, the ceremony was viewed from outside the designated worship area.
After witnessing this centuries-old festival, celebrated across tribal regions of the state, Saha told the media, “I had the opportunity to receive blessings on this auspicious occasion of Ker Puja.”
As per the traditions of Ker Puja, outsiders are not allowed to enter the designated worship area during the ceremony. This festival is celebrated in various parts of Agartala, other northeastern states, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts of neighboring Bangladesh.
Strict traditional rules associated with the festival prohibit activities such as birth, death, and entertainment within the designated worship area until the ceremony concludes.
The annual Ker Puja, primarily organized by local tribal communities, involves complex and ancient rituals aimed at promoting the welfare of the people, safeguarding land, and warding off evil spirits and negative forces.
Ker Puja lasts for two and a half days and is celebrated about a week after the seven-day ‘Kharchi Puja.’ During Kharchi Puja, 14 Hindu deities of Tripura are worshipped together.
This year’s week-long Kharchi Puja was held in the former royal state’s old capital, ‘Puran Haveli’ (now known as Khairpur), located about eight kilometers north of Agartala.
The Chief Minister noted that a primary objective of Ker Puja is to foster goodwill, unity, and brotherhood among all sections of society. On this traditional occasion, he extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the people of Tripura. He reminded everyone that Ker Puja is celebrated seven days after the Kharchi Puja held at the Chaturdashi Devta Temple in Khairpur, a tradition that dates back to the reign of the former king Maharaja Trilochan.
He further mentioned that the rituals are conducted in accordance with long-standing traditions. Although the worship now takes place in front of the royal palace, the entire palace complex was once considered part of the sacred ‘Ker’ boundary. Saha stated, “Priests who worship the 14 deities at the Chaturdashi Devta Temple have come to perform the rituals. We have received their blessings. This worship is conducted for the development, peace, and welfare of all in the state.”
He also highlighted that as part of the rituals, a symbolic bamboo structure is worshipped.
The Chief Minister expressed on social media, “On the occasion of Tripura’s traditional Ker Puja, I extend heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state. Ker Puja is a unique symbol of our rich heritage, culture, and spiritual beliefs. I pray that this sacred festival brings peace, good health, and prosperity to everyone’s life.”
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