Photo Courtesy: tripuratimes
Agartala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned the national spotlight on the Chongpreng during his Mann Ki Baat radio address on July 26. He focused on the three-stringed bamboo instrument traditionally played by Tripura tribal communities. The PM noted the device produces a sound reminiscent of a Sarod. The music is sweet and melodious. Yet, the instrument lost popularity among the youth over time.
Surya Kumar Debbarma stepped in to save the art. He is reviving the tradition and teaching it to the younger generation. The Prime Minister praised Debbarma for his commitment to keeping indigenous music alive. Debbarma also promotes Kokborok folk songs, Baul songs, and Bengali folk music. Modi played an audio clip of the Chongpreng and urged listeners to share details about traditional instruments from their own regions. The Prime Minister stated, "The three-stringed bamboo instrument as an important part of Tripura's cultural heritage."
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha thanked the Prime Minister for showcasing the state on a national platform. Saha listened to the broadcast with citizens at booth number 51 in the Pratapgarh assembly constituency. He took to social media to express his gratitude for the recognition of Debbarma and the state's cultural history.
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