Agartala, July 7, 2025: Describing him as a true nationalist, philosopher, and visionary, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha said that the ideology and vision of Bharat Kesari Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee remain highly relevant even yesterday. The Chief Minister was speaking at the inauguration of a state-level tribute programme held at Muktadhara Auditorium in Agartala, organized by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Mookerjee.
The programme began with floral tributes offered by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries to the portrait of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. A documentary on his life and contributions was also screened during the event.
In his speech, the Chief Minister said that, in the past, younger generations were deliberately kept unaware of the life and philosophy of patriots like Dr. Mookerjee. However, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, young Indians are now learning about such great national figures. He also touched upon the life of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya while speaking on this occasion.
Dr. Saha highlighted Dr. Mookerjee’s vision for a self-reliant society—an idea that both the central government led by PM Modi and the state government of Tripura are working to realise. He recalled Dr. Mookerjee’s firm opposition to the partition of India and said that the tragic consequences of partition are still etched in the nation’s memory. With India advancing rapidly under the present government, the Chief Minister said he believes the country will soon earn a prominent place on the global stage. He stressed that the values and philosophy of Dr. Mookerjee are reflected in this progress. The true tribute to Dr. Mookerjee, he added, would be to spread his ideals and principles among the youth.
Marking Dr. Mookerjee’s 125th birth anniversary, the Chief Minister announced the institution of the “Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Excellence Award” by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs. This award will honour individuals making significant contributions in social service, national service, and administration. Plans are also underway to install a statue of Dr. Mookerjee at the Agartala Town Hall premises and rename the venue in his honour.
MP Rajib Bhattacharjee, speaking at the programme, described Dr. Mookerjee as a lifelong crusader for a unified India and a catalyst for social transformation. Subrata Chakraborty, Vice-Chairman of the State Cultural Advisory Committee, emphasized the increasing relevance of Dr. Mookerjee’s philosophy in contemporary society.
The welcome address was delivered by Dr. P.K. Chakraborty, Secretary of the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs, who noted that Dr. Mookerjee’s birth anniversary was celebrated across all 23 subdivisions of the state. Calling him a true patriot and a worthy son of India, he praised his enduring legacy.
Also present at the event was Director of ICA Department Bimbisaar Bhattacharjee. As part of the programme, a photo exhibition on Dr. Mookerjee’s life and contributions was held in the auditorium lobby, and a quiz competition was conducted for participating students from various schools and colleges.
