Tripura observes centuries-old ‘Ker Puja’ with traditional fervour

Tripura, on July 18, celebrated its age-old traditional festival, Ker Puja, with solemn devotion and cultural splendour, upholding one of the state’s most sacred and austere rituals.
 

Celebrated exactly 15 days after the vibrant Kharchi Puja, the Ker Puja rituals hold a special place in the hearts of the indigenous communities. 
 

The puja is predominantly performed in the areas surrounding the royal Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala and in Puran Haveli the erstwhile capital of Tripura, located about 12 kilometers east of the city, also known as Old Agartala.
 

The observance of Ker Puja begins at midnight and continues for more than 30 hours without interruption. 
 

During this time, the notified area is sealed off, prohibiting any births, deaths, or recreational activities. 
 

Outsiders are strictly barred from entering, and violations attract penalties. Pregnant women, the sick, and those nearing death are traditionally kept outside the puja precincts in adherence to the rigid customary codes.
 

Besides Agartala and Old Agartala, Ker Puja is also celebrated in various indigenous villages across the state, usually during the harvest season or towards the year’s end, as a gesture of gratitude and protection for the community.
 

On this auspicious occasion, BJP National President and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, along with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, extended their heartfelt wishes to the people of Tripura, lauding the cultural richness and spiritual depth of the festival.