Tripura’s Cultural Heritage Under Threat? Pushpabanta Palace to be Transformed into a Luxury Hotel
Agartala, March 16: Tripura’s rich cultural heritage is once again at the center of debate, as the state government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tata Group’s Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) to develop a five-star hotel at the historic Pushpabanta Palace. While the government sees this as a step toward tourism development, critics argue that it marks yet another erosion of the state’s historical identity.
The MoU was signed at the Tripura Institution for Transformation’s conference hall, in the presence of Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, Industries & Commerce Minister Santana Chakma, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, senior government officials, and top IHCL executives.
Government’s Justification: Tourism Growth & Employment
Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said, “This is the first-ever MoU between the Tripura government and Tata Group to develop the state’s hotel and tourism sector. It will significantly boost the economy.”
He further announced that the new luxury hotel will be named “Taj Pushpabanta Palace”, covering 7.78 acres of land. The palace’s main building will be restored and repurposed as a reception and public area, while four exclusive royal suites will be developed, allowing tourists to experience the grandeur of the Manikya dynasty.
The project will include 100 modern hotel rooms and will require an investment of approximately ₹250 crore. The Chief Minister stated that the initiative will create direct and indirect employment for over 200 people, providing new opportunities for local youth.
Opposition’s Objection: Heritage Being Commercialized?
Despite the government’s assurances, the project has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and cultural activists. Tipra Motha leader Rajshekhar Debbarma strongly opposed the move, stating, “Pushpabanta Palace is an important historical and cultural symbol of Tripura. Instead of preserving it as a heritage site, the government is turning it into a commercial venture. This is a clear attempt to erase our history in the name of development.”
Royal Scion’s Stand: ₹258 Crore for ADC & 200 Jobs for Tiprasa Youth
Meanwhile, Royal Scion and Tipra Motha Founder Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma has confirmed that the Taj Group has allocated ₹258 crore for the Autonomous District Council (ADC) administration as part of this project. Additionally, he assured that 200 Tiprasa youths will be employed in the hotel.
Pradyot Manikya stated, “I want to ensure that our indigenous people (Tiprasa) benefit from this project. ₹258 crore has been earmarked for ADC development, and 200 indigenous youths will secure jobs here. While protecting our heritage is important, so is the economic and social progress of our people.”
Development vs. Heritage: The Debate Continues
This project has sparked contrasting reactions while the government argues that it will boost tourism and generate employment, opposition voices claim it will lead to the commercialisation of Tripura’s heritage.
As the modernisation vs. heritage conservation debate continues, the question remains will Tripura strike a balance between development and cultural preservation, or will yet another historic landmark fade into corporate transformation?
