Agartala, Oct 02: Durga Puja in Tripura this year was celebrated with an extraordinary blend of spirituality, creativity, and cultural vibrancy. From September 30 to October 2, the state witnessed an electrifying festive atmosphere — illuminated streets, bustling pandals, and heartfelt devotion marked every corner.

Despite intermittent rainfall, the mood remained undampened as thousands of people thronged puja mandaps across the state. Traditional rituals merged with innovative themes, turning the festival into a showcase of both heritage and artistry.

The puja spirit had gripped the people well from tritiya evening, when Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha opened several puja pandals in the capital city.

Agartala’s renowned clubs and puja committees pulled huge crowds with their unique decorations and concepts. Yuva Samaj (Joynagar), Netaji Play Forum (Centre), Pole Star Club (Astabal Maidan), Aikatan Yuva Sanstha (Santipara), Agiye Cholo Sangha, Deshbandhu Chittaranjan, Shatadal Sangha, Flowers Club, Chatrabandhu Club, Santikami Sangha (Buddhamandir), Bharat Ratna Sangha (Ushabazar), Central Road Yuva Sanstha, Kunjaban Sporting Union, Sanhati Club and several others earned appreciation for their thematic creativity.

Alongside rituals, evenings came alive with musical performances, cultural programmes, and food stalls serving festive favourites like khichuri bhog, sweets, and street delicacies. The joy of pandal-hopping was visible on the faces of devotees-- young and old.

According to official data, around 3,000 community pujas were organised across Tripura this year — a 10 percent increase from last year. West Tripura topped the list with 772 pujas, while other districts also showcased wide participation.

To ensure peaceful festivities, the state government deployed over 7,800 security personnel including Tripura State Rifles, police officers, and women constables. Their vigilance ensured a smooth, incident-free celebration.

As Durga Puja concluded, all eyes are now on the colourful ‘Mayer Gomon’ carnival scheduled for October 4 in Agartala, where idols will be paraded with music, dance, and cultural displays before the final farewell to Goddess Durga.