By Tripura24 News Desk Agartala, January 21, 2026
The capital city of Agartala is buzzing with a unique blend of spiritual devotion and patriotic fervor as it prepares for a rare double celebration this Friday, January 23. While the student community is busy making final arrangements for Saraswati Puja, the state is also gearing up to commemorate the 129th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Saraswati Puja Meets Netaji Jayanti
This year, the calendar has presented a rare overlap. January 23 marks both Vasant Panchami, dedicated to the Goddess of Learning, and Parakram Diwas, honoring India’s iconic freedom fighter. Schools and colleges across the state are in a festive rush, balancing the traditional Saraswati Puja rituals with the morning parades and tributes to Netaji.
“It’s a special day for us,” said a student from Ramthakur College. “We will start the morning with the Netaji Jayanti rally and then proceed to the Pushpanjali for Bagdevi. It’s double the energy, but also double the planning.”
Market Report: Idol Prices and Inflation
A visit to the local markets in Agartala, including Battala and Lake Chowmuhani, reveals that while the spirit is high, the budget is under strain. Sculptors have filled the stalls with idols of all sizes—ranging from small household figurines to large, intricately designed clay models for clubs and institutions.
However, the “sky-high prices” of essential commodities have cast a shadow over the market. Artisans at Kumartuli expressed their concerns, citing the rising costs of raw materials.
- Material Costs: The price of clay, bamboo, straw, and especially high-quality paints has seen a significant jump compared to last year.
- Labor & Transport: Increased labor wages and fuel costs for transporting idols have forced sculptors to hike prices.
- Price Range: Small idols that previously sold for Rs300–Rs500 are now being quoted at Rs,500–Rs 800, while medium-sized idols for schools are reaching up to Rs,5000–Rs 8,000.
Buyers’ Concerns
“Everything from flowers to fruits and even the idol is more expensive this year,” complained a parent shopping at the market. “The price of ‘Kool’ (Ber), marigold garlands, and even the ingredients for Khichuri prasad have spiked. We are trying to keep the tradition alive, but it is becoming a financial challenge.”
Despite the economic pinch, the enthusiasm remains undeterred. As the sun sets today, the final touches are being applied to pandals across Agartala, ensuring that both the Goddess of Wisdom and the Hero of India’s independence receive a grand welcome tomorrow.
