Prime Minister Narendra Modi is inaugurating the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura, today, marking the ceremonial commencement of Navratri with a sacred puja at one of Hinduism’s 51 Shakti Peethas.
On the auspicious first day of Navratri, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tripura to formally inaugurate the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur’s Gomati district, offering prayers and initiating the nine-day festival of devotion and celebration. This visit marks Modi’s 11th trip to Tripura since 2014 and his second visit to the revered temple since becoming Prime Minister.
Historic Temple, Modern Makeover
The Tripura Sundari Temple, also known locally as Matabari, was originally constructed over 500 years ago and holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for devotees across India’s Northeast. The temple has been redeveloped under the central government’s PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme at a cost exceeding ₹52 crore, with the state contributing ₹7 crore toward this ambitious project. The renovated complex features modern amenities, updated pathways, enhanced security, and a distinctive tortoise-shaped architectural layout that balances tradition and modernity.
Elaborate Security and Arrangements
Security was heightened across the Agartala-Udaipur route, with more than 10,000 personnel deployed for the Prime Minister’s brief but high-profile visit. Traffic was restricted, local marketplaces closed, and school and college timings adjusted to ensure a hassle-free passage. Dignitaries including Tripura’s Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha, state ministers, MPs, and senior bureaucrats joined the inaugural event, reflecting the occasion’s political and religious weight.
Navratri Begins with Spiritual Grandeur
Navratri, celebrated fervently throughout India, takes on special resonance with its opening rituals conducted at such an eminent Shakti Peetha. Prime Minister Modi’s presence underscores the ongoing cultural renaissance in India’s Northeast and advances the region’s profile on the national religious tourism map. Following the inauguration and puja, PM Modi is expected to return to Agartala before departing for Delhi, with no public address scheduled during this tightly organized visit.
The redeveloped Tripura Sundari Temple is expected to boost spiritual tourism, generate employment, and support the socio-economic fabric of Tripura while preserving its spiritual legacy for generations to come.
