Agartala, Apr 17: In a significant moment for religious tourism in Tripura, noted Bollywood actress and Yoga icon Shilpa Shetty visited the revered Tripura Sundari Temple early Friday morning, drawing attention to the historic shrine at a national level.

The actor reached the temple premises, popularly known as Matabari, around 3:30 am but had to wait in the VIP room as the temple doors were closed. Following the angala Aartiat around 4 am, she offered prayers to the deity and soon left for Agartala.

Her visit assumes importance as the presence of a prominent Bollywood personality is expected to significantly enhance the temple’s visibility among a wider audience across the country, potentially boosting pilgrimage and tourism in the state.

Security was tightened across the temple premises in view of the high-profile visit. According to administrative sources, the early morning timing was deliberately chosen to avoid large crowds and ensure smooth conduct of rituals.

Speaking briefly to reporters, Shilpa Shetty said she was drawn by deep devotion. “I have long wished to visit and offer prayers here. I love Tripura,” she said.

The Tripura Sundari Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, holds immense religious significance and continues to attract devotees from across the country. The actor’s visit is likely to further strengthen its prominence on India’s spiritual tourism map.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited the Tripura Sundari temple, Udaipur on September 22 last year and offered prayers, bringing it to the spiritual tourism spotlight.