Agartala: Tripura is gearing up to celebrate the century-old Kharchi Puja and Festival, a week-long cultural extravaganza set to commence on July 14 at the Chaturdasa Devata Temple, located in Old Agartala in West Tripura district.

Khayerpur MLA and former Tripura Speaker, Ratan Chakraborty, announced the details of the upcoming event.

Tripura chief minister Dr Manik Saha is scheduled to inaugurate the festival on July 14, accompanied by tourism minister Sushanta Chowdhury.

The concluding day will witness the presence of Tripura power minister Ratan Lal Nath and forest minister Animesh Debbarma.

“All preparations for the puja and fair are well underway, and with the cooperation of all departments and the local community, we are confident of a successful celebration,” stated Chakraborty.

This year’s theme, he elaborated, is “Green Future”.

Also read: Tripura launches project monitoring unit to accelerate development initiatives

“To preserve our future and our planet, maintaining ecological balance is crucial. We aim to plant over 15,000 saplings, which will be distributed among devotees during the festivities,” he informed the media.

Chakraborty emphasized the festival’s national appeal, noting its attraction to participants from across the country.

“The tourism department is actively promoting Kharchi Puja. Last year, we saw over 900 participants from various states and even from Bangladesh joining cultural programs. This year, we anticipate a larger turnout,” he added.

“Food stalls will also be set up, catering to the diverse tastes of visitors. Last year, we recorded footfalls exceeding 2 million, and arrangements have been made for food and lodging for saints arriving from different states.”

During the week-long event, stringent measures will be in place, including restrictions on heavy vehicles, which will be directed to park at designated inter-state truck terminals.

“To ensure public safety and maintain order, medical teams, more than 100 Scouts and Guides, and over 800 Tripura State Rifles Jawans will be deployed,” Chakraborty assured.