Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Tuesday unveiled a 9-foot-tall statue of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur on the premises of Bir Bikram Memorial College, marking a historic moment in Tripura’s academic and cultural journey. The ceremony took place at 4 pm in the presence of several dignitaries.
The unveiling was attended by Minister of Higher Education Sri Kishore Barman, Rajya Sabha MP Sri Rajib Bhattacharjee, Vice-Chancellor of MBB University Dr. Bibhas Deb, and Director of Higher Education Sri Animesh Debbarma, among others.
The statue installation formed the central attraction of the Five-Day Golden Jubilee Celebration of Bir Bikram Memorial College, being observed from August 18 to 22, 2025.
A Journey Rooted in Vision
The institution traces its origins to Bir Bikram Evening College, founded on August 19, 1969, under the affiliation of Calcutta University. Later, on December 26, 2002, the college shifted to College Tilla, occupying the former Tripura University building. It was then renamed Bir Bikram Memorial College, evolving into a co-educational day college committed to serving the broader community.
The unveiling of the Maharaja’s statue is seen as a tribute to his visionary leadership and contribution to higher education in Tripura.
A Moment of Pride and Nostalgia
The historic event witnessed participation from a wide spectrum of stakeholders—students (both current and alumni), faculty members, retired professors, non-teaching staff, patrons, guardians, and well-wishers—who gathered to honor the legacy of Maharaja Bir Bikram.
The formal programme began with a warm welcome address by Dr. Rupak Saha, convener of the Golden Jubilee and Statue Installation Committee. He described the event as a “candid tribute necessary for the institution’s identity and rejuvenation of aspirations.”
Speakers during the event highlighted the college’s glorious journey over the past five decades and stressed the importance of preparing the current generation with specialized skills for future employment opportunities. “Besides celebrating history, today’s students also need to acquire practical skills for the job market,” said Sri Animesh Debbarma, Director of Higher Education, Government of Tripura.
Celebrating Legacy, Inspiring Future
The atmosphere of the ceremony was filled with nostalgia, pride, and emotion, as students, educators, and community members celebrated the dual milestone—the Golden Jubilee of the college and the unveiling of Maharaja Bir Bikram’s statue.
The programme reinforced the Maharaja’s legacy as a visionary leader whose contributions to education, infrastructure, and welfare continue to inspire generations.