In the lush heart of Tripura, where ancient legends whisper through the hills, Prime Minister Narendra Modi added a modern chapter to a timeless tale. On September 22, 2025, he inaugurated the stunning redevelopment of the Mata Tripura Sundari Temple—one of Hinduism’s revered 51 Shakti Peethas—unveiling a Rs 54 crore transformation under the government’s PRASHAD scheme. This isn’t just a facelift for a 524-year-old shrine; it’s a vibrant fusion of devotion, heritage, and economic upliftment, poised to draw millions of pilgrims and tourists. As Modi offered prayers amid tribal kirtans, the event symbolized India’s commitment to preserving its spiritual soul while propelling regional growth. Let’s journey through the highlights of this divine upgrade.
The Sacred Roots: A Glimpse into Mata Tripura Sundari’s Timeless Legacy
Nestled in Udaipur’s Gomati district, the Mata Tripura Sundari Temple isn’t merely a structure—it’s a living emblem of Tripura’s royal past and spiritual fervor. Founded in 1501 by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya, the temple’s unique tortoise-hump architecture houses two sacred black stone idols: the towering 5-foot Maa Tripura Sundari and the endearing 2-foot Chhoto-Ma (Goddess Chandi). As one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where legend says Sati’s right foot fell, it draws devotees seeking blessings for prosperity and protection.
Key Points:
- Historical Milestone: Built over 500 years ago, it reflects the Manikya dynasty’s devotion and architectural ingenuity.
- Cultural Heartbeat: Surrounded by the Gomati River, it’s a hub for festivals like Diwali and the temple’s annual fair, blending tribal and Hindu traditions.
- Recent Honors: The temple’s famed Matabari Peda prasad earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, safeguarding its authentic recipe and boosting local pride.
This inauguration marks Modi’s second visit to the shrine since 2014, underscoring his personal connect with Northeast India’s spiritual mosaic.
PRASHAD in Action: The Rs 54 Crore Makeover Unveiled
Launched by the Union Tourism Ministry, the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) scheme is on a mission to revitalize India’s sacred sites, blending conservation with contemporary amenities. At Mata Tripura Sundari, this Rs 54 crore project—initiated post-2018 by the BJP-led state government—has turned a historic gem into a world-class pilgrim hub, all without compromising its ancient charm.
Key Points:
- Infrastructure Boost: New pathways, enhanced entry points, and eco-friendly lighting for seamless pilgrim flow.
- Wellness and Comfort: A dedicated meditation hall, modern guest accommodations, and improved sanitation facilities.
- Beautification Magic: Landscaped gardens, photo exhibition galleries chronicling the temple’s history, and sustainable water management systems.
Modi kicked off the day touring the exhibition, offering ritualistic puja with tribal kirtans, and reviewing the upgrades— a poetic nod to the temple’s role in fostering national unity.
Voices of Inspiration: What Leaders and Devotees Are Saying
From temple trustees to opposition voices, reactions poured in, blending applause with calls for inclusivity. PM Modi himself tweeted about encouraging more pilgrims to “appreciate the beauty of Tripura,” while CM Saha hailed it as a “grand inauguration by the world’s renowned leader.” Yet, Congress flagged the event’s exclusivity, alleging no invites for their leaders—sparking debates on political harmony at sacred spaces.
Key Points:
- Modi’s Message: “Reviewed the works… for the well-being and prosperity of countrymen.”
- Saha’s Enthusiasm: “The entire population of Tripura is eagerly awaiting” this milestone.
- Broader Echoes: Officials predict a tourism surge, with enhanced facilities drawing global devotees to this Shakti Peetha powerhouse.
These sentiments capture the event’s unifying spirit amid diverse viewpoints.
Economic Ripples: Tourism Boom and Beyond
Beyond spirituality, the redevelopment is a catalyst for Tripura’s economy. By elevating the temple as a premier pilgrimage site, it promises job creation in hospitality, handicrafts, and guiding—vital for a state rich in biodiversity but hungry for sustainable growth. PRASHAD’s holistic approach ensures eco-sensitive upgrades, aligning with India’s green heritage goals.
Key Points:
- Tourism Surge: Expected influx of pilgrims to boost local businesses and revenue.
- Job Creation: Opportunities in construction, maintenance, and tourism services for Gomati’s youth.
- Socio-Economic Lift: Complements projects like ADB’s Rs 975 crore infra push in nine Tripura industrial areas.
This could position Tripura as Northeast’s spiritual tourism jewel.
