Muhuripura Tripura’s unique Diwali with 6th century Idol
Discover the rich heritage of Muhuripura, Tripura, where a six-foot, 18-handed rock-carved idol of Devi Raj Rajeshwari stands at the heart of the region’s grand Diwali celebrations.
Tucked away in the quiet and unassuming village of Muhuripura, nestled under the Santirbazar subdivision in Tripura, lies a hidden gem from the annals of ancient India—a magnificent six-foot, one-ton, 18-handed rock-carved idol that truly takes your breath away. Now, you might be thinking, what’s the fuss all about? Well, this isn’t just any old statue—oh no, this striking piece of antiquity is revered as a form of “Shakti,” a divine symbol of female power, and every year it becomes the beating heart of South Tripura’s largest Diwali celebration.
Now, if you happen to find yourself wandering through these parts during the festival, don’t be surprised to see a sea of devotees flocking to this sacred site. It’s as though the entire village springs to life, quite the transformation, considering Muhuripura is usually more accustomed to the chirping of birds than the bustling crowds.
But the story of this deity is what makes it even more intriguing. According to local legend, about 70 years ago, an unassuming ascetic named Harananda Giri stumbled across the idol in his travels. He wasn’t the sort to make a song and dance about it though—he simply tucked it away in his humble little hut, as you do. It wasn’t until his disciple, Radharani Bhairabi, took up the mantle and began worshipping the idol as Devi Raj Rajeshwari that people started to sit up and take notice. Before you could say “Bob’s your uncle,” the villagers deified the idol, relocating it to a brand-new temple—marking the start of an annual Diwali tradition that has since snowballed into one of the most significant events in the region.
As Dulal Gope, a local social worker with an eye for archaeology, points out, “The idol’s relocation wasn’t exactly a walk in the park.” The task of shifting this ancient stone relic was a mammoth effort, involving bulldozers, sweat, and no small amount of determination. But the result is truly spectacular—a sprawling temple that now hosts the grandest Diwali celebrations in South Tripura.
Experts believe this ancient deity dates back to the 6th or 7th century, with a design that’s uncannily similar to the Buddhist sculptures found at Pilak, a notable archaeological site. But here’s the rub—since the idol has been consecrated and worshipped by thousands, experts aren’t likely to get their hands on it for further studies. “It’s a no-go zone for us, I’m afraid,” confided an ASI official, clearly resigned to the fact that some mysteries are best left unsolved.
This year, the Diwali celebrations kick off on October 30, with a two-day extravaganza that promises the full works—traditional rituals, a vibrant fair, and cultural performances to boot. The local government’s getting involved too, with departments setting up stalls to add a bit of administrative flair to the mix. The preparations are in full swing, and the village is abuzz with excitement. After all, it’s not every day you get to put on a show for thousands.
As the big day draws nearer, Muhuripura gears up for its moment in the spotlight. This village, which for the rest of the year is the picture of rural tranquility, turns into a bustling hub of spiritual energy during Diwali. And right at the centre of it all is that 18-handed idol—a relic of a long-forgotten time, yet so deeply embedded in the present-day traditions that bind the community together.
Dulal Gope puts it best when he says, “This idol isn’t just a piece of history; it’s our identity, our connection to something much older and grander than any of us.” For the people of Muhuripura, Diwali is far more than just another festival—it’s a way of honouring the past while looking ahead to the future with pride, faith, and a hearty dose of community spirit.
So, there you have it. A festival that’s as much about ancient roots as it is about modern-day celebration. You couldn’t ask for a better blend of the old and the new—just like a good cup of tea, really.
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