Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Friday evening said that the present state government is working to enrich and promote the culture, tradition and literature and for this the government has undertaken a series of programs.

The Chief Minister said this after inaugurating the Tripura Literature Festival at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala on Friday evening.

"I never thought before that such a program could take place here. When members of Udaan approached me about the program, I tried to understand the matter, and once I was convinced that such programs would be beneficial for the people, I extended my support. This Literature Festival is going to be held for three days. Literature festivals have been organized many times by the state government and other organizations, in which I have also participated. However, this time, I am very happy to see renowned poets, playwrights, and novelists from all over the country," he said. 

Dr Saha mentioned that the famous singer and lyricist Kumar Sachin Dev Burman had donated his land and building to the government, where Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan has been established. 

"Kabiguru Rabindranath Tagore visited Tripura seven times. The royal family of Tripura and Rabindranath Tagore’s family shared a close bond. Kabiguru even composed songs based on Tripura. Several Maharajas of the Manikya dynasty were known for their paintings, writings, and other contributions to art and culture. This program is being held alongside the observance of Matribhasha Diwas. This day is also significant for remembering those who sacrificed their lives for the language movement in the then East Pakistan, now Bangladesh," said Dr Saha. 

He added that those who have participated in the festival have set an example in their respective fields. 

"I want to congratulate the organizers for inviting such distinguished personalities. Our state government is dedicated to enriching and promoting the culture and tradition of the state, and numerous programs have been organized towards this effort," Dr  Saha added.

During the event Wing Commander, Ashok Chakra recipient Rakesh Sharma, Padma Shri awardee Prof. Arunodoy Saha, Padma Shri Dr Ravi Kanan, Padma Shri Gokul Chandra Das, Rabindra Awardee Bikach Chowdhury and others were present.