The 25th edition of the ten-day National Unity Fair began at Kailashahar in the Unakoti District of Tripura with a spectacular opening ceremony. Organized by the Ashray Social Organization, this year’s event pays tribute to the late Maharaja of Tripura Kirit Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, honoring his contributions to unity and cultural heritage.
The inaugural ceremony, held on Thursday evening, featured the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by founding president of Ashray Social Organization and an MLA, Birajit Sinha, alongside Girijananda Maharaj, the Secretary of Kailashahar Ramakrishna Mission Ashram.
Prominent figures graced the occasion, including Chandrasekhar Sinha, the Secretary of Ashray Social Organization; Lakshmi Nama, Chairperson of Gournagar Panchayat Samiti; Md. Badruzzaman, Vice Chairman of the Panchayat Samiti; Rudrendu Bhattacharya, a distinguished social worker; senior advocate Narsingh Das; and other religious leaders representing various faiths.
A Celebration of Culture and Community
Traders from across the state and local entrepreneurs have also joined the fair, setting up 280 vibrant stalls that showcase a wide variety of goods and crafts.
The cultural group Gaur Bani opened the event with a stirring performance of the inaugural song, setting the tone for the daily cultural programs planned throughout the fair. These programs will feature artists from both within and outside Tripura, offering a blend of local and national talent.
Beyond cultural performances, the fair will host an array of engaging activities. Sports enthusiasts can participate in marathon races and cycling competitions, while community-driven events include voluntary blood donation camps, clothing donation drives, and health camps offering free medicines. The event will also feature youth discussion forums and seminars designed to empower women and foster dialogue on pressing issues.
A Legacy of Peace and Harmony
In his speech at the opening ceremony, MLA Birajit Sinha reflected on the fair’s 25-year legacy of promoting peace and harmony. He recalled its early years when it was held at Agartala’s Town Hall, with governors from Tripura and neighboring states in attendance. Supported by representatives from all political parties, the event later found its permanent home in Kailashahar.
Sinha emphasized India’s unique identity as a secular nation where people of diverse faiths coexist peacefully. He spoke passionately about India’s heritage of unity in diversity, warning against the dangers of religious fanaticism and urging attendees to uphold these cherished values.
Kailashahar National Unity Fair
The National Unity Fair in Kailashahar continues to serve as a platform for cultural exchange, social cohesion, and community engagement. With this year’s dedication to Maharaja Kirit Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the event stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of harmony and inclusivity that defines India.
(Tripura, Northeast)
