By Firstdespatch Desk Jun 26, 2026
Agartala, June 27 (FD) The birth anniversary of Sahitya Samrat Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay was observed with deep respect and patriotic fervour at Muktadhara Auditorium in Agartala on Friday. The commemorative programme, titled "Shraddhanjali: The Birth Anniversary of Sahitya Samrat Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay," was organised by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA), Government of Tripura, bringing together ministers, legislators, cultural personalities, students, and literary enthusiasts to honour one of Bengal's greatest literary icons.
The programme was inaugurated by Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma in the presence of Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder, MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, Vice-Chairman of the State Cultural Advisory Committee Subrata Chakraborty, ICA Secretary Pradip Kumar Chakraborty, and Director of Information and Cultural Affairs Bimbisar Bhattacharjee.
The dignitaries paid floral tributes to the portrait of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay before a documentary highlighting his life, literary achievements, and immense contribution to Indian nationalism was screened.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Santana Chakma quoted the famous patriotic lines, "Tumi Vidya, Tumi Dharma, Tumi Hridi, Tumi Marma," from Vande Mataram, paying heartfelt tribute to the literary legend whose writings awakened the spirit of patriotism during British rule. She described it as a privilege to honour the creator who opened a new era in Bengali literature and ignited the flame of nationalism through his immortal composition Vande Mataram.
The Minister said Bankim Chandra's literary works continue to enrich Bengali culture, values, and intellectual thought. She remarked that generations of students have learned from his writings and urged young people to pursue education not merely for employment but to become responsible, compassionate, and morally upright citizens dedicated to nation-building. According to her, the programme at Muktadhara Auditorium was not just a celebration but a meaningful revival of Bankim Chandra's enduring ideals.
Speaking on the occasion, Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder expressed pride that Vande Mataram continues to command respect across the nation. He said the song united millions during India's freedom struggle and remains a timeless symbol of patriotism and national unity. He also appreciated the ICA Department for organising the commemorative event.
Welcoming the guests, ICA Secretary Pradip Kumar Chakraborty highlighted Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's remarkable literary achievements and informed that his birth anniversary was being observed across all districts of Tripura. Schools throughout the state had also been directed to organise commemorative programmes to familiarise students with his life and works.
State Cultural Advisory Committee Vice-Chairman Subrata Chakraborty spoke about the lasting relevance of Bankim Chandra's writings, noting that Vande Mataram, written nearly 150 years ago, became a defining symbol of India's freedom movement. He also highlighted novels such as Devi Chaudhurani, saying they challenged social barriers, promoted women's empowerment, and advocated social reform, making Bankim Chandra a pioneer of modern Bengali literature.
A state-level essay writing competition prize distribution ceremony was also held during the programme. Winners from school, college, and university categories received awards from the dignitaries for their outstanding performances. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, paying fitting tribute to the life, literary excellence, and enduring legacy of Sahitya Samrat Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, whose works continue to inspire generations with the ideals of patriotism, humanity, and cultural pride. FD SB