A Journey Through Time: The Rich History of Tripura
From mythical origins tied to the Lunar dynasty to its formal integration into the Indian Union, Tripura's history is a captivating tale of monarchs, tribes, and transformation.
Tripura, the third smallest of India's North-Eastern states, boasts a rich and complex history. While details of its pre-Manikya era remain scarce, the adoption of the 'Manikya' title by its kings in the 14th century marked a significant turning point. This period also saw the capital move to Udaipur (formerly Rangamati), a shift even acknowledged by the Mughals. Functioning as a princely state under British rule, Tripura officially integrated into the Indian Union on October 15, 1949, with Kirit Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur as its last princely ruler.
Early History & Origins
Much of Tripura's early history is rooted in myth and legend, often linked to the Lunar dynasty through figures like Druhyu, Daitya, Tripura, and Trilochan. The precise origin of the name 'Tripura' itself is uncertain. However, archaeological findings suggest that ancient Tripura maintained connections with eastern Bengal kingdoms like Samatata, Vanga, and Harikela.
According to the royal family chronicles, the Rajmala, the capital shifted multiple times—from Nowgong to Cachar, then Dharmanagar—before settling in its current location.
The Manikya Period & State Formation
The true formation of the Tripuri state began with the Manikya rulers. The 'Manikya' title was first adopted by Ratna Pha around AD 1250, officially conferred by Sultan Mughisuddin Tughril. State formation gained momentum in the early 15th century under Chhengthung Pha (Maha Manikya), who successfully subjugated various tribes including the Jamatias, Kukis, and Reang, creating a more unified kingdom.
Factors in State Formation:
- Bengali Contact: Trade and commerce led to the adoption of the 'Manikya' title.
- Tribal Unity: The involvement of tribes like Jamatias and Halams in key administrative roles fostered organization.
- Economic Growth: Surplus from jhoom (shifting cultivation) and settled agriculture facilitated trade.
- Individual Land Ownership: Kings encouraged Bengali settlement, which increased cultivation and revenue.
- Brahminical/Hindu Influence: The arrival of immigrants, land grants, and temple building solidified the state's structure.
- Adoption of Systems: Administrative and military systems from Bengal's Gaur dynasty helped in reorganization.
Administration in Pre-Colonial Times
In ancient times, the hills were governed by tribal chiefs while the plains were controlled by dynasties like Vanga and Samatata. The 'Pha' (Tripuri chief) ruled with a tribal structure, assisted by the 'Chantai' (priest). The Reang System featured a sophisticated three-tier structure of village, clan, and tribe, led by a chief or Raja known as the 'Roy' or 'Kami Kachkao'.
British Relations & Resistance
British involvement in Tripura began in 1761. A treaty was established where the King paid revenue for the plains territory of Chakla Roshnabad, and in return, the British agreed not to interfere in Tripura's internal hill affairs. Despite this, British influence grew, leading to the modernization of Tripura's bureaucracy and judiciary, but also the loss of territory during the Lushai expedition of 1871-72.
The Political Agents
In the 1870s, the British appointed a Political Agent in Tripura, ostensibly to manage Kuki raids but effectively to exert control. Maharaja Birchandra initially objected, viewing it as an infringement on his independence. However, these agents became a strong force, compelling the Raja to implement reforms and follow the will of the Government of India.
19th Century Uprisings
The 19th century saw several resistance movements, including the Tipra (1850), Kuki (1860-61), and Jamatia (1863) rebellions. The Kuki Rebellion, led by Rutton Poea, highlighted the administrative weaknesses of King Isanchandra Manikya's reign. During the 1857 Revolt, the Tripura monarchy sided with the British, but harsh taxes imposed by their appointed Dewan later triggered further rebellion.
Era of Social Reforms
The late 19th century, particularly under the progressive rule of Maharaja Birchandra Manikya, was a period of significant social change.
Sati System: Despite being forbidden in British India, Sati persisted in Tripura. Birchandra Manikya is credited with undertaking its abolition in his kingdom.
Slavery: A common practice for centuries, slavery was formally abolished in Tripura by Birchandra Manikya in AD 1877, years after the British had done so in India.
Integration into the Indian Union
After the death of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya in 1947, his minor son, Kirit Bikram, became Maharaja under the regency of his mother, Maharani Kanchanprabha Devi. With immense political change sweeping the subcontinent, the Tripura merger agreement was signed on September 9, 1949. The administration was officially transferred to the Dominion Government on October 15, 1949, marking the end of an ancient monarchy and the beginning of Tripura's journey as an integral part of modern India.
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