Tripura, 24 Nov 2025: A vibrant and spirited opening marked the launch of the Maharani Kanchan Praba Devi Women’s Football Tournament at the Joying Mini Stadium in Killa. The event was formally inaugurated by Maharaja Pradyot Bikram Debbarma, who was joined by CEM Purna Chandra Jamatia, Jamatia Hoda Okra Bipra Kumar Jamatia, MLA Pathanla Jamatia, and several other respected guests.
Organised in honour of Maharani Kanchan Praba Devi, grandmother of Pradyot Bikram Debbarma and wife of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya, the last king of Tripura and the state’s “modern architect,” the tournament reflects both royal legacy and community progress. This year, 10 women’s football teams from different parts of Tripura have come together to participate.
To encourage women footballers, attractive cash prizes have been announced:
- ₹1.5 lakh for the champions with Trophy
- ₹1 lakh for the runners-up with Trophy
The opening match between Noa Bari HS School and Don Bosco, Mandai set the tone for the tournament, ending in a hard-fought draw, showcasing great potential from both sides.
During the ceremony, Pradyot Bikram Debbarma addressed the players with warmth and encouragement. He announced that he would host both the winning and non-winning teams at the Rajbari and personally reward them with ₹30,000 and ₹15,000 respectively.
He added that he looks forward to meeting the young athletes over traditional dishes like Bhangui, Chakhwi, and Gudok, emphasising that the day was meant for sportsmanship, not politics.
Sharing his vision, he said:
“Play to win… and enjoy the game. Belai no hambai. Khulumkha.”
Speaking on the occasion, Jamatia Hoda Okra Bipra Kumar Jamatia highlighted the role of sports in shaping a healthier society:
“Sports can take our youth to greater heights and keep them away from harmful influences such as drugs.”
The tournament stands as a powerful initiative to empower women in sports, promote healthy competition, and strengthen community pride—carrying forward the royal heritage of Tripura in a meaningful and modern way.