Know aboutTripuri/Tiprasa People.
The Tripuri people are an indigenous ethnic group primarily residing in the northeastern Indian state of Tripura and parts of Bangladesh, Assam, and Mizoram. They are the original inhabitants of Tripura and form a significant portion of its population. This article provides an in-depth analysis of their history, culture, traditions, language, society, economy, and more.
- Etymology and Identity
The name "Tripuri" comes from the historical kingdom of Tripura, ruled by the Manikya dynasty for centuries. The word "Tripura" itself is believed to have originated from "Tui" (water) and "Pra" (near), signifying people living near water bodies.
Tripuris are part of the Tibeto-Burman linguistic and ethnic group and are closely related to other Bodo-Kachari tribes such as the Bodos, Dimasas, and Koch.
- History of the Tripuri People
2.1 Origins
Tripuris trace their ancestry to the Tibeto-Burman groups that migrated from the upper Yangtze and Mekong regions of China and Tibet over 2,500 years ago. They settled in the Brahmaputra Valley before establishing their rule in present-day Tripura.
2.2 The Kingdom of Tripura
The Tripuri Kingdom was one of the longest-ruling dynasties in India, governed by the Manikya dynasty for over 1,300 years.
The kingdom was never conquered by the Mughals, though it paid tribute to them.
It became a princely state under British rule in 1761 and later merged with India in 1949.
2.3 Post-Indian Independence
The 1949 merger led to large-scale Bengali migration, reducing Tripuris to a minority in their own state.
This led to identity struggles, culminating in political movements like the Tripura National Volunteers (TNV) and the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT).
- Demographics & Distribution
Tripuris are found in:
India: Tripura (majority), Assam, Mizoram, and others part of Northeast.
Bangladesh: Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), Sylhet, and Mymensingh.
Myanmar: Some groups migrated over time.
Total population: 1.5 to 2 million (estimates vary).
- Language and Literature
4.1 Kokborok Language
The Tripuri language, called Kokborok, is a Tibeto-Burman language spoken by over 1 million people.
It shares linguistic similarities with Bodo, Garo, and Dimasa.
The script was originally Roman and Bengali, but efforts are being made to revive Tripuri script.
4.2 Literature
Early Tripuri literature was oral—folk songs, ballads, and myths.
The Tripura Rajmala, a historical chronicle, is an important literary work.
Modern writers like Chandra Kanta Murasing,Sefali Debbarma,Sudhanya Debbarma and others have contributed to Kokborok literature.
- Culture and Traditions
Tripuris have a rich cultural heritage influenced by their Tibeto-Burman roots and Hindu practices.
5.1 Traditional Attire
Men: Rikutu Gamcha (loincloth), Kubai (jacket).
Women: Rignai (wrap-around skirt), Risa (chest cloth), Rikutu (headgear).
5.2 Festivals
Garia Puja (April): Worship of Garia, the god of fertility and prosperity.
Ker Puja (August): Worship of guardian deities, where outsiders are banned.
Buisu: New Year festival similar to Bihu in Assam.
Durga Puja: Due to Hindu influence, many Tripuris also celebrate Durga Puja.
5.3 Dance and Music
Garia dance: Performed during Garia Puja.
Hojagiri dance: A famous female-only dance showcasing balance and agility.
Musical Instruments: Sumui (flute), Kham (drum), Sarinda (string instrument).
- Religion and Beliefs
Originally animists, Tripuris followed Saa (Shaivism) and worshiped local deities. Over time, many converted to Hinduism and Buddhism.
6.1 Traditional Religion (Saa)
Tripuris practiced ancestor worship and nature worship.
Important gods include:
Garia (god of prosperity)
Lampra (creator god)
Ker (guardian spirit)
6.2 Hindu Influence
Tripura kings promoted Vaishnavism (worship of Lord Vishnu and Krishna).
Major Hindu festivals like Durga Puja became popular.
6.3 Christianity and Buddhism
Christianity spread in the 19th century, especially among Tripuris in Assam and Mizoram.
Buddhism has minor influence in Bangladesh’s Chittagong Hill Tracts.
- Social Structure and Lifestyle
7.1 Family System
Joint family system is common.
Society is patrilineal, with inheritance passing through male lineage.
7.2 Clans (Somaj)
Tripuris are divided into several clans (Debbarma, Jamatia, Reang, Noatia, etc.), each with distinct traditions.
7.3 Marriage
Traditional marriages involve elaborate rituals.
Bride price (Sworbh) is common.
Love marriages and arranged marriages are both accepted.
- Economy and Occupation
8.1 Agriculture
Rubber Plantation (Currently 2nd largest rubber producer in India)
Jhum (shifting cultivation) was traditional but is declining.
Rice, maize, cotton, and vegetables are common crops.
8.2 Handicrafts
Cane and bamboo products are widely produced.
Tripuris are known for their handwoven textiles.
8.3 Modern Professions
Many Tripuris now work in government services, education, and business.
Migration to urban centers for jobs is increasing.
- Tripuri Political Movements
Tripura National Volunteers (TNV): Rebel group fighting for indigenous rights (1980s).
All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF): Insurgency group demanding sovereignty.
Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) & TIPRA MOTHA: Current political party fighting for Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) rights.
Challenges Faced by Tripuri People
Loss of Indigenous Land: Bengali migration led to Tripuris becoming a minority.
Language Decline: Kokborok is under threat from Bengali.
Economic Disparities: Rural Tripuris face poverty and lack of education.
Political Marginalization: Tripuris struggle for autonomy and tribal rights.
- Future of the Tripuri People
Efforts are being made to revive Tripuri culture, language, and traditions. Organizations are working on:
Kokborok language promotion.
Autonomy movements.
Preservation of traditional customs.
Despite modernization, Tripuris remain deeply connected to their roots, continuing to fight for their identity and rights.