Tripura to have tallest Nataraj Statue and first-ever glass skywalk bridge in State: CM

Agartala (Tripura), July 13: In a significant move to boost spiritual and cultural tourism in Tripura, the state government has initiated an ambitious project to build a grand park in Udaipur that will feature replicas of the sacred 51 Shakti Peethas, India’s tallest Nataraj statue, and the state’s first-ever glass skywalk bridge. The project, to be implemented at an estimated cost of ₹97.70 crore, also includes a 400-seat amphitheatre and other modern tourism amenities.

Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha, who laid the foundation stone for the ‘51 Shakti Peeth Park’ at Banduwar in Udaipur on Saturday, said the initiative marks a major milestone in the state’s tourism journey. He highlighted that the park will serve as a spiritual, cultural, and recreational hub for tourists from across India and beyond.

The Tallest Nataraj Statue: India, and the world’s tallest Nataraj statue, standing at 28 feet, is situated at the entrance of Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. It was specially erected to mark the G20 Summit held in the capital in September 2023. Crafted from Ashtadhatu, a traditional alloy composed of eight metals, the statue holds both artistic and cultural significance.

“This is a moment of joy for all of us,” said Dr. Saha. “Our Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly emphasized the importance of developing at least one world-class tourist destination in every state. This park is our step in that direction.”

The Chief Minister noted that the centrepiece of the project—the 51 Shakti Peetha replicas—will not only draw pilgrims but also educate visitors about the mythological and historical importance of these sacred sites. “The skywalk bridge will be the first of its kind in Tripura, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, while the towering Nataraja statue, symbolizing cosmic dance, will become an iconic landmark,” he added.

Dr. Saha stressed the importance of maintaining high standards in the construction and design of the project. “Those responsible for its implementation must work diligently to ensure excellence. Global promotion of this park will attract international tourists, boosting foreign exchange and creating a ripple effect on local trade and services,” he said.

Besides being a tourism magnet, the project is expected to catalyze economic development in the region. “It will bring prosperity to local businesses and generate employment opportunities for youth. Tourism has the potential to uplift the socio-economic fabric of the state,” the Chief Minister asserted.

He also mentioned that the park will serve as a cultural showcase, especially highlighting the heritage and traditions of Tripura’s indigenous communities. “This project will not only enrich our tourism landscape but also contribute to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Tripura is already second among North Eastern states in terms of GSDP growth, and we aim to go further,” he said.

The development will include additional infrastructure such as parking spaces, commercial complexes, and urban plazas, aiming to create a holistic tourist experience. The project is slated for completion within the next 15 months, and the state government is working steadily under the guidance of the Prime Minister to realize this vision.

Alongside tourism, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s ongoing commitment to sectors like education, healthcare, housing, and rural income enhancement, with special attention to the welfare of tribal communities.

The foundation stone laying ceremony witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, Gomati Zilla Parishad Chairperson Debal Debroy, MLAs Rampada Jamatia, Abhishek Debroy, and Jitendra Majumdar, Matabari Panchayat Samiti Chairperson Shilpi Das, and senior district and police officials.