Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Tripura’s traditional musical instrument, the Chongpreng, during the latest episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Sunday. He praised Surya Kumar Debbarma for his efforts to preserve and revive the indigenous musical tradition.
Modi described the Chongpreng as a three-stringed bamboo instrument traditionally played by tribal communities in Tripura. He said its melodious sound resembles the Sarod and noted that the instrument is gaining renewed attention. Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha thanked the Prime Minister for showcasing the state’s cultural heritage nationally.
Read More: Manik Saha Praises Mann Ki Baat, Highlights Chongpreng
Key Facts
- Programme: Mann Ki Baat
- Prime Minister: Narendra Modi
- State highlighted: Tripura
- Traditional instrument: Chongpreng
- Instrument type: Three-stringed bamboo instrument
- Person praised: Surya Kumar Debbarma
- Key focus: Preservation of Tripura’s indigenous music and culture
- Tripura CM: Dr. Manik Saha
PM Modi Praises Tripura’s Chongpreng
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Tripura’s Chongpreng during the latest Mann Ki Baat episode.
He praised Surya Kumar Debbarma for preserving and reviving the traditional musical instrument.
Modi used the programme to highlight India’s diverse musical and cultural heritage. He described the Chongpreng as a three-stringed bamboo instrument.
Chongpreng Holds Tribal Cultural Significance
According to Modi, tribal communities in Tripura have traditionally played the Chongpreng.
He noted that the instrument produces a melodious sound similar to the Sarod.
The Chongpreng had gradually faded from public attention. However, Debbarma’s efforts have helped bring renewed interest in the traditional instrument.
His work has also helped introduce the instrument and its cultural importance to wider audiences.
Modi Highlights Traditional Music
During the broadcast, Modi also praised efforts to preserve other traditional musical forms.
He mentioned Kokborok folk songs, Baul music and Bengali folk traditions while discussing India’s rich musical diversity.
The Prime Minister also played a short audio clip of the Chongpreng during the programme.
He encouraged citizens to share stories and information about traditional musical instruments from their own regions.
Manik Saha Thanks Prime Minister
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha welcomed the Prime Minister’s remarks.
In a social media post, Saha thanked Modi for recognising Surya Kumar Debbarma’s work.
The Chief Minister described the Chongpreng as a unique three-stringed bamboo instrument and a treasured part of Tripura’s cultural heritage.
Saha also appreciated Modi’s continued efforts to showcase Tripura’s traditional arts and culture before audiences across India.
National Attention for Tripura’s Cultural Heritage
The Prime Minister’s remarks have brought fresh national attention to Tripura’s indigenous musical traditions.
The recognition also highlights the role of individuals who work to preserve traditional art forms and pass them on to future generations.
The Chongpreng’s appearance on Mann Ki Baat could further encourage interest in Tripura’s traditional music and cultural practices.
What is the Chongpreng?
The Chongpreng is a three-stringed bamboo musical instrument traditionally associated with tribal communities in Tripura.
Who did PM Modi praise?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Surya Kumar Debbarma for his efforts to preserve and revive the Chongpreng tradition.
What did Modi say about the Chongpreng’s sound?
Modi said the instrument produces a melodious sound that bears a resemblance to the Sarod.
What did Manik Saha say?
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha thanked PM Modi for recognising the Chongpreng and Debbarma’s contribution to preserving Tripura’s cultural heritage.
Why is the Chongpreng important to Northeast India?
The Chongpreng represents an important part of Tripura’s indigenous musical heritage. Its national recognition also highlights the rich cultural diversity of Northeast India and the importance of preserving traditional art forms.
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