Agartala, 05 June (HS): A new chapter in Tripura’s history began on Friday as Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for the much-awaited five-star heritage hotel project, ‘Taj Pushpabanta Palace’, at the historic Pushpabanta Palace in Agartala. The project is expected to blend the state’s royal legacy with modern hospitality and boost Tripura’s tourism potential on the national and international stage.
The foundation-laying ceremony was attended by Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, Tipra Motha founder and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, members of the state cabinet and other dignitaries. The event commenced with Vedic rituals, prayers and a traditional bhoomi pujan ceremony, reflecting the cultural and spiritual heritage associated with the palace.
Pushpabanta Palace, one of Tripura’s most iconic landmarks, was built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya Debbarma. Renowned for its architectural grandeur, the palace also holds a special place in history due to its association with Rabindranath Tagore, who visited the royal residence on several occasions at the invitation of the Tripura royal family.
After Tripura’s merger with India, the palace served as the Raj Bhavan for several decades before the Governor’s residence was shifted to the new Capital Complex in 2018. Subsequently, it was converted into the Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya Museum and Cultural Centre.
Under an agreement between the Tripura Government and [Indian Hotels Company Limited, a part of the Tata Group, the historic palace will now be transformed into the heritage luxury hotel ‘Taj Pushpabanta Palace’. The project is expected to enhance Tripura’s position on the tourism map of Northeast India while preserving the architectural and cultural significance of the landmark.
Officials and tourism stakeholders believe the initiative is more than just a hotel project. It is being seen as a significant step towards showcasing Tripura’s rich heritage, culture and royal history to a global audience. The transformation of the historic palace into a world-class heritage hotel is expected to create new opportunities for tourism, hospitality and economic growth in the state.
The foundation stone ceremony marks a major milestone in Tripura’s journey of preserving its past while embracing future development, ensuring that Pushpabanta Palace continues to remain a symbol of the state’s pride and legacy for generations to come.----------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
