Agartala, Aug 19: The 117th birth anniversary of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur Dev Varma, the last ruler of the Manikya dynasty and regarded as a visionary leader, was observed with a state-level celebration today at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala on Tuesday.
Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha inaugurated the state level programme and paid rich tributes to the Maharaja, stating that his far-sighted vision was deeply rooted in the welfare of the state and its people. He described the Maharaja as a true dreamer whose initiatives in education, healthcare, communication, banking, and trade had laid the foundation for Tripura’s modern development.
On the occasion, noted educationist and cultural personality Sachin Koloi was honoured with this year’s Maharaja Bir Bikram Smriti Award, which included a memento, a citation, and a cheque of ₹1 lakh. The event was organized by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA).
Speaking at the programme, Chief Minister Dr Saha said that despite his short life, Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya had introduced numerous welfare measures for the people of Tripura. Drawing from his experience abroad, the Maharaja initiated several development projects in the state. Though a devout Hindu, he was respectful of all faiths, and his contribution to the development of higher education in Tripura remains unmatched.
Dr. Saha further emphasized that the present government is working to carry forward the Maharaja’s vision for holistic development. He pointed out that in earlier regimes, Tripura’s kings were not accorded the due respect they deserved. Under the present government, Tripura’s only airport has been named after Maharaja Bir Bikram, and his birth anniversary, August 19, has been declared a state holiday.
“It is not enough to pay floral tribute to the Maharaja’s portrait on his birth anniversary. The present generation must be made aware of his ideals and philosophy,” the Chief Minister said. He highlighted that during the Partition, Maharaja Bir Bikram had provided food and shelter to countless refugees from East Bengal, which reflected his humanitarian values. He also recalled the special bond between the last four Manikya rulers and Rabindranath Tagore, noting that it was Maharaja Bir Bikram who had conferred the title “Bharat Bhaskar” upon the poet.
The Chief Minister stressed that the government is committed to preserving Tripura’s cultural heritage while ensuring progress through the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas, Sabka Vishwas.” He said that India’s resilience in preserving its culture and traditions despite repeated foreign invasions remains a source of national pride.
Referring to the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr. Saha said the programme aims to connect today’s youth with the sacrifices and philosophies of the martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation. He asserted that nation-building is possible only through the collective efforts of people across religion, caste, and community.
Cooperation Minister Shuklacharan Noatia, who also addressed the gathering, said that the current government has ensured due honour to the kings of Tripura. MP Kriti Devi Debbarman, in her speech, highlighted the longstanding concern of the royal family for the welfare of the people, stressing the importance of unity and brotherhood among all communities for Tripura’s holistic development. ICA Secretary Dr. P.K. Chakraborty delivered the welcome address.
The programme began with floral tributes to Maharaja Bir Bikram’s portrait by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries, followed by a documentary screening on his life and works. Among those present were Agartala Mu…
