Tripura, 24 Nov 2025: The Grand Opening Ceremony of the Maharani Kanchan Praba Devi Football Tournament (Women) took place today at the Joying Mini Staduim in Killa. The tournament was inaugurated by Maharaja Pradyot Bikram Debbarma, in the presence of CEM Purna Chandra Jamatia, Jamatia Hoda Okra Bipra Kumar Jamatia, MLA Pathanla Jamatia, and several other dignitaries.
This special tournament an initiative of CEM Purna Chandra Jamatia has been organised in honour of Maharani Kanchan Praba Devi, the grandmother of Pradyot Bikram Debbarma and the wife of Tripura’s last king, Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya, who is widely known as the architect of modern Tripura. A total of 10 women’s teams from across the state have come together to participate in this event.
The prize money for the tournament includes ₹1.5 lakh for the champions and ₹1 lakh for the runners-up with Trophy.
Speaking at the inauguration, Pradyot Bikram Debbarma shared an inspiring message with the players:
“Whether you win or lose, I want to invite both teams to the Rajbari. I want to sit with all of you. I will give additional prizes ₹30,000 for the winning team and ₹15,000 for the team that doesn’t win from my side.”
He added:
“Invite both teams to Aguli or Agartala, to the Rajbari. I want to meet our young stars. We will share Bhangui, Chakhwi, and Gudok together.
I will not give any political speech today. I wish you all the best. The score is still zero-zero. Play to win. Belai no hambai. Khulumkha. All the best. I love you.”
Addressing the gathering, Jamatia Hoda Okra, Bipra Kumar Jamatia, highlighted the positive impact of such events:
“Sports can take our youth very success and keep them away from harmful things like drugs.”
The tournament aims to promote women’s participation in sports, uplift young talent, and honour Tripura’s royal heritage. The opening event witnessed enthusiasm, encouragement, and a strong message of empowerment for women athletes across the state.
