By Firstdespatch Desk Sep 15, 2025
Agartala, Sept 15 (FD) The three-day-long traditional Neermahal Water Festival concluded on Sunday at Rajghat, Melaghar, with a grand cultural showcase that highlighted Tripura’s heritage. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, addressing the closing ceremony, stressed the importance of promoting Neermahal and Rudrasagar Lake on national and international platforms to enhance tourism.
He noted that Neermahal, one of India’s rare water palaces, remains a major attraction for its architectural beauty and natural surroundings. Dr. Saha emphasized that greater tourist awareness would not only celebrate the palace’s history but also generate opportunities for local communities by boosting the economy and improving livelihoods.
Under the Swadesh Darshan Programme, several initiatives are underway to strengthen Tripura’s tourism sector, with Neermahal as a key component. The Chief Minister also highlighted rural empowerment efforts, mentioning the formation of nearly 60,000 self-help groups across the state to promote women’s self-reliance. He appealed for collective responsibility in maintaining peace and building a vision of “Ek Tripura, Srestha Tripura.”
Higher Education Minister Kishore Barman, presiding over the event, said Neermahal and Rudrasagar are deeply tied to local livelihoods and stand as symbols of pride for Tripura. Other dignitaries present included Sepahijala Zilla Parishad Sabhadhipati Supriya Das Datta, District Magistrate Dr. Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal, MLA Tafazzal Hossain, and Melaghar Municipal Council Chairperson Anamika Ghosh Pal Roy.
The festival concluded with vibrant competitions, including traditional boat races, swimming, yoga, and Mansamangal contests. Winners were felicitated by the Chief Minister and dignitaries. Describing the festival as a blend of “culture, harmony, and heritage,” CM Saha reiterated its role in uniting communities and promoting Tripura’s tourism potential. FD SB