Festival to be held from July 3 to 9 at Chaturdasha Devata Temple in Old Agartala
Agartala, June 30: Tripura is preparing to host the annual Kharchi Festival, one of the state’s most significant religious and cultural events, from July 3 to July 9, 2025. The weeklong celebration will take place at the historic Chaturdasha Devata Temple in Khayerpur, located in Old Agartala, about 8 kilometers from the capital city.
Observed on the eighth day (Ashtami Tithi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha, the Kharchi Puja is rooted in centuries-old traditions and tribal customs. The festival is dedicated to the worship of fourteen deities—collectively known as the Chaturdasha Devata who are considered protectors of the land and its people.
Led by the temple’s chief priest, known as the Raj Chantai, rituals are performed daily to honor deities including Shiva, Uma, Hari, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, Kartikeya, Brahma, and others. Among them, Lord Shiva is regarded as the principal deity.
The festivities begin with the Snan Yatra, a ceremonial bathing of the deities in the waters of the Howrah River. The ritual, marked by chants, incense, and traditional music, attracts thousands of devotees who gather to witness the symbolic purification that precedes the puja.
Over the course of seven days, the temple grounds transform into a vibrant fairground, drawing large crowds from across Tripura and neighboring states. The Kharchi Mela, held in conjunction with the religious events, features stalls, exhibitions, and cultural performances that highlight the state’s rich heritage and tribal identity.
Various government departments will also set up informational stalls to showcase development initiatives and welfare schemes. These platforms provide a direct interface between citizens and administrative representatives, promoting transparency and public awareness.
Each evening, the Krishnamala Stage—the cultural epicenter of the fair—hosts performances by renowned artists from Tripura and beyond. Folk music, tribal dance, and theatrical presentations are part of a diverse lineup curated by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs. In addition, special programs for children, including art competitions and cultural showcases, will be held at the Habeli Stage.
Historically, the Chaturdasha Devata Temple was established by Maharaja Krishna Kishore Manikya following the relocation of the state capital from Udaipur to present-day Old Agartala, then known as Habeli. Though the capital was later shifted again to Agartala, the temple and its deities have remained integral to the spiritual life of the region.
Kharchi Festival, once primarily observed by the tribal communities, has evolved into a statewide celebration of unity, drawing participation from all sections of society regardless of religious or ethnic background.
Large-scale footfall is expected this year, including visitors from outside the state and abroad. Security, transport, and health facilities are being coordinated to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
As Tripura embraces this vibrant convergence of ritual, culture, and community, Kharchi 2025 reaffirms its place as a living symbol of the state’s pluralistic ethos and enduring traditions.
