Tripura CM Dr Manik Saha unveils plans to boost religious tourism, focusing on Mahamuni Pagoda in Manu Bankul, during Baisakhi Buddha Purnima 2025 at Venuban Vihar, Agartala, emphasizing peace, spiritual growth, and economic benefits.
Agartala, May 12, 2025 – Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha announced ambitious plans to promote religious tourism in the state, with a special focus on enhancing the Mahamuni Pagoda in Manu Bankul in Sabroom under South Tripura, as a key pilgrimage and tourist destination.
The announcement was made during the vibrant Baisakhi Buddha Purnima celebrations at Venuban Vihar, Buddha Mandir in Agartala, where devotees from diverse faiths gathered to honor the birth, enlightenment, and legacy of Lord Buddha.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Manik Saha underscored the spiritual and economic significance of the Mahamuni Pagoda in Manu Bankul, a revered Buddhist temple that attracts approximately 700 visitors daily.
“The Mahamuni Pagoda is not only a site of immense religious importance but also a designated tourist destination contributing to Tripura’s economic growth,” he said.
To capitalize on its potential, the state government has launched initiatives to develop the pagoda and other religious sites, aiming to draw more pilgrims and tourists from across India and beyond.
The Chief Minister highlighted the universal appeal of Buddha Purnima, noting that the occasion transcends religious boundaries. “This day is not just for Buddhists alone but for all who value peace and unity,” he said, emphasizing that Venuban Vihar attracts a significant number of visitors from other states. Dr Saha, who has visited the temple multiple times, described the inclusive spirit of the celebrations, which unite people of all faiths in a shared commitment to harmony.
Baisakhi Buddha Purnima
Reflecting on the global recognition of Baisakhi Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha jayanti, the Chief Minister pointed out that the United Nations has designated it as Vesak Day, observed worldwide to commemorate the life and teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, born as a prince in Lumbini, Nepal.
Attended Buddha Purnima celebration at Venuban Vihar, Agartala & prayed to Lord Buddha for the well-being of the people.
May Lord Buddha’s teachings continue to inspire our collective pursuit of progress and well-being.
In the event, honoured veteran citizens Shri Satyarnajan… pic.twitter.com/BRnC36zx7M
— Prof.(Dr.) Manik Saha (@DrManikSaha2) May 12, 2025
He recounted Gautama’s journey from royalty to renunciation, seeking answers to life’s sorrows and impermanence, ultimately attaining enlightenment as the Buddha. “His teachings guide us to transcend the mind’s limitations and embrace deeper truths,” Tripura Chief Minister said, urging the audience to put Buddha’s principles of non-violence and mindfulness into practice.
Dr Manik Saha also connected the state’s progress to the ethos of peace championed by Lord Buddha.
“Tripura, once plagued by insurgency, is now free from terrorism, with all former militants having surrendered. Our initiatives for religious tourism and development align with the vision of peace and progress for the state and the nation,” he stated.
| Also Read: PM Modi extends greetings on Buddha Purnima, hails Lord Buddha’s message of peace |
The Chief Minister called for mindful communication, cautioning against careless or misleading speech. “Words have power, and we must avoid language that harms or confuses. Some politicians misuse words to mislead people, which we must consciously avoid,” he remarked, reinforcing the importance of integrity in public discourse.
The Baisakhi Buddha Purnima celebrations at Venuban Vihar were marked by prayers, cultural performances, and a shared sense of reverence, reflecting Tripura’s commitment to fostering interfaith harmony and spiritual tourism. With the state government’s focus on developing sites like the Mahamuni Pagoda in Manu Bankul, Tripura is poised to emerge as a prominent destination for religious and cultural tourism, offering both spiritual enrichment and economic opportunities.
