Tripura, 12 Feb 2026: A two-day National Traditional Handicrafts Fair and Hojagiri Dance Festival was inaugurated yesterday at Shishu Udyan in Agartala, aiming to revive and promote the rich heritage, culture, and traditions of the state. The festival has been organized by the Tribal Research and Cultural Centre.
Inaugurating the event, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma stated that the present state government is committed to revitalizing Tripura’s ancient traditions, cultural practices, and heritage. He expressed hope that the participation of representatives from various states would strengthen the spirit of fraternity and cultural unity.
The festival will continue today 3 PM to 9 PM.
Participants from Assam, Chhattisgarh, Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Meghalaya, and different sub-divisions of Tripura have set up a total of 50 stalls. Entrepreneurs are showcasing a wide range of cottage industry products including incense sticks, flower vases, Risa, Pachra, shawls, sarees, caps, traditional Hejak lamps, assorted food items, and pickles. Arrangements have also been made for the sale of various food and consumer products.
Minister Bikash Debbarma further stated that the government has taken initiatives to revive traditional Indigenous food habits. Through the Tribal Research and Cultural Centre, efforts are being made to spread awareness about traditional dietary practices among the younger generation at the block level.
He added that many cultural elements were lost during previous governments, but the present administration is working in accordance with the ideals of Tripura’s 184 kings. After coming to power, the government renamed Baramura Hill as Hataikotor, Gandachhara Sub-division as Gandatwisa, and Dhumachhara as Hakutwisa.
The Minister emphasized that Tripura belongs to everyone and said peace is essential for the state’s development. “With the cooperation of all, we want to build Tripura into a model state,” he said.
The event was attended by Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder, who described the fair as a major platform for the preservation and promotion of diverse cultural traditions.
Director of the Tribal Research and Cultural Centre Ratnajit Debbarma delivered the welcome address. Deputy Director Ruma Rudra Pal was also present.
Following the inauguration, artists performed Hojagiri, Chakma, and Santhal group dances along with Jadukalija musical performances. The program commenced with the rendition of Vande Mataram.
