Agartala, July 19, 2025: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha today took part in the sacred Ker Puja rituals at the historic Ujjayanta Palace, marking the continuation of one of the state’s oldest royal traditions. The Chief Minister was joined by Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, Member of Parliament Rajib Bhattacharjee, and West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar.
The Ker Puja, a royal tribal ritual unique to Tripura, is performed to seek divine protection, prosperity, and harmony in the state. Rooted in Indigenous faith and Manikya royal customs, the puja is traditionally held at the Rajbari and also in various Indigenous village areas across the state.
Speaking to the media after attending the ritual, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said, “After Kharchi Puja, this sacred Ker Puja is held. I came here to take blessings. This is not just a puja, but a tradition of unity. Through this, we seek that no misfortune comes upon our state.”
Historical Significance
The origins of Ker Puja trace back to the rule of Maharaja Krishna Manikya in the late 17th century, who is believed to have institutionalized the ritual. It was later upheld by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya in the early 20th century, making it an integral part of the royal calendar.
What makes this puja unique is its strict observance of traditional codes, including a temporary ban on movement within the puja boundaries and prohibitions on music, fire, and certain foods during the 48-hour ritual period.
Even today, tribal villages across Tripura observe Ker Puja to pray for the well-being and protection of their communities, reflecting a deep continuity of Indigenous spiritual practice.
The presence of top state dignitaries at today’s puja underscores the government’s respect for age-old traditions that bind diverse communities together in cultural unity.
