Famous for orange, rubber, tea, and bamboo plantation, Tripura is amongst the smallest states of India that is an unexplored treasure. This piece of land showcases the tiny world of tribal people who have astonishingly preserved natural resources. Trying hands on cotton fabric, wood, bamboo, cane to make breathtaking articles is what defines them. The capital of this classical state is Agartala and one can visit the land of purity from October to May to get the most of Tripura's rich culture and landscapes.
History of Tripura
The Twipra Kingdom, the largest kingdom of north-east India is probably the first name that strikes in the head when it comes to the history of a mighty state Tripura. In the stories of Rajmala, the mention of the Tripura kingdom is articulated sophistically, defining the origin of the kingdom. During the ancient period, i.e. the 7th century, Kailashahar, the northern region of Tripura was from where the kings ruled. They gained the title “fa” or “pha" for themselves which means father or head. When the Kings shifted their capital from Rangamati to Udaipur, they adopted the title of Manikya Dynasty of the southern region in the 14th century. Then Mughals came into the picture after which the British rule followed.
At the beginning of the 19th Century, the British governance established in many regions of India and they sent an agent to Tripura for Maharaja's assistance. He advised him for changing the capital to Agartala. The rulers of Tripura are known for building palaces like the Neermahal Palace as well as Ujjayanta Palace. Once India got independence, the Union of India and the princely state of Tripura went under a merger on 15th October of 1949. Finally, it was declared as a Union Territory on 1st July of 1963. With continuous efforts and intervention of people of Tripura, the state garnered itself a pivotal place. 21st January 1972 became a noteworthy date when Tripura got accepted as the fully-fledged state of India.
Culture of Tripura
The presence of numerous ethnolinguistic groups led to the formation of the composite culture of Tripura. The cultures that dominate the state are Jamatia, Tripuris, Reang, Nantong, Koloi, Chakma, Oraon, Santhal, Halam, Garo, Hajong, Mizo, Mogh, and Uchoi. The Bengali culture somehow overlaps the tribal culture in certain regions. However, untouched towards the hills of Tripura, the culture at the hilly region of the state basks in the glory of maintaining the ethnicity. 70% of Tripura's population comprises of the Bengali community and merely 30% of the total population belongs to the original Tripura culture. Among the tribes of Tripura, Kokborok speaking people had been dominating across the state until the 2001 census came into the picture.
The Bengali language is the most spoken language among the populace of Tripura, and Kokborok is still alive in the hearts of tribal people. In short, Bengali culture is represented through the urban life of the state while Kokborok is represented by the people of villages. Coming to the Gods and deities, you must know that people worship patron Goddess of Tripura, Tripureshwari. Along with this, people have belief in fertility Gods, including Lam-Pra (sky and sea Gods), Mailu-ma (corn Goddess), Burha-sa (healing God), and Khulu-ma (cotton plant Goddess) apart from many more deities. Every culture and religion has its significance and communities of Tripura firmly believe that the mother Earth keeps everyone bonded together without being bias of their cultural diversity.
Food of Tripura
The plate of Tripura India gets the best flavours from its traditional food, Mui Borok that is relished by the people of the state. The chefs of Tripura take inspiration from a lot of its neighboring countries, including Bangladesh and China. Most of the people of Tripura are the non-tribal Bengalis' who are typical north-eastern people. These folks primarily live on fish, vegetables, and rice due to which pork, mutton, chicken, and other non-vegetarian dishes are quite prevalent among the people of the state. Spicy curry is another best thing that adds a distinct flavor to the food palate of Tripura.
These people add Tripurian style to a few Chinese dishes to add a touch of their own typical taste. The authenticity of these dishes lies in flavours that are generated by tempering numerous spices to blend according to local taste. The traditional drinks of Tripura; Chauk, and Chuwarak are akin to beer and gives the fantastic taste of conventional beer which is also a regional specialty. Among the state's famous dishes, one can savour Mosdeng Serma, Bhangui, Kasoi Bwtwi, Panch Phoron Tarkari, and Wahan Mosdeng. Grab a bite of these luscious dishes and enjoy the lip-smacking flavors to make the most of your tours to India.
Art and Craft of Tripura
Land of highly skilled artisans, Tripura is a destination in India that pays homage to a plethora of distinct ethnic groups who are experts in a lot of craft-making techniques. Bamboo and cane works are amongst the most famous craft works of the state. The handicrafts such as decorated wall panels, silver jewellery lamps, furniture of cane, bamboo dining table mats, floor mats, and room dividers are the evidence of the dexterity of the artisans of the state. Also, the proficient artisans of Tripura weave highly incredible fabrics, and their designs are truly fascinating.
The traditional pattern of their handlooms comprises horizontal and vertical stripes with vibrant embroidery. Every tribe has its unique handicrafts. Among the oldest industries of Tripura; handloom, cane, and bamboo grab the top line. Whilst artisans take only simple materials, including bamboo, palm leaves, rods, and yarn, they carve marvelous articles out of these eco-friendly raw materials. All in all, the tribal community of Tripura are known for their magnificent craftsmanship and extreme talent that adds magic to any element.
Things to do in Tripura
Every travel enthusiast makes a specific visit to Tripura to endorse the rich culture, witness the hilly landscapes, see the luxurious palaces, lush fields, highly skilled craftsperson, and whatnot. Here is the list of Tourist Attractions in Tripura with the activities that one can enjoy after entering the state of Tripura.
- Pay an eye to the unrealistic beauty of Unakoti.
- Enjoy boating at the Rudrasagar Lake.
- Get religious vibes at Jagannath and Kali temples of Agartala.
- Visit Heritage Park at Kunjaban, Agartala
- Pluck the fresh oranges at Jampui Hills
- Become a part of the grand Durga puja celebration.
- Endorse the magnificent architecture of Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala.
- Play with animals at the wildlife sanctuary of Uttar Charilam.
- Do not miss to visit the Rose Valley Amusement park of Amatali, Madhuban.
Endorsing the tribal culture and heritage sites is fun in this part of the country as Tripura tourism offers the real preservers of traditions that are worth exploring. Embarking on a tribal tour can surely endow visitors with a glimpse of untouched beauty and simplicity of life. Some journeys' are profound!
